Week 10 Fundamentals of Nutrition: McCurnin's Chapter 9

These flashcards cover essential topics in nutrition from McCurnin's Chapter 9, focusing on nutrients, their sources, functions, and significance in animal health.

What are the three main components that affect the life of an animal?

Genetics, Environment, Nutrition.

Why is nutrition particularly important for the veterinary health team?

Nutrition is the only factor that can be positively affected by the veterinary health team, impacting health and healing.

What are the six essential nutrients?

Proteins, Fats, Carbohydrates, Vitamins, Minerals, Water.

Which nutrient category includes proteins, fats, and carbohydrates?

Energy-producing nutrients.

What are common sources of protein in animal diets?

Meats, meat by-products, and some plant proteins.

How much more protein do cats require compared to dogs?

Cats have a higher protein requirement (2X) than dogs.

What is the main purpose of proteins in the body?

To aid in muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily functions.

What are the two types of amino acids based on dietary requirement?

Essential amino acids (must be ingested) and non-essential amino acids (can be synthesized by the body).

What is the acronym for remembering essential amino acids?

Happy Animals Love To Make Playful Little Leaps Toward Victory.

What is the role of Taurine in a cat’s diet?

Essential for heart, brain, and reproductive health.

What are carbohydrates used for in animal diets?

To add variety, fiber, and serve as a less expensive energy source.

What is the difference between soluble and insoluble carbohydrates?

Soluble carbohydrates are digestible sugars, while insoluble carbohydrates are dietary fibers not digestible by monogastric animals.

What is a key characteristic of fats in animals' diets?

They are the most concentrated energy source and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

What are essential fatty acids (EFA)?

Fats that must be supplied in the diet because the body cannot produce them.

Why is caution required when using fish oil supplements for certain patients?

They are not recommended in patients with conditions like thrombocytopenia due to decreased platelet aggregation.

What are the two categories of vitamins?

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and Water-soluble vitamins (B complex and C).

What are some consequences of vitamin deficiencies?

Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness, Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, and Vitamin K deficiency can cause excessive bleeding.

What are macrominerals?

Minerals required in larger amounts, such as Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium, and Magnesium.

What is Urolithiasis?

The formation of urinary stones within the urinary tract due to imbalanced minerals and lack of water intake.

What is the function of Sodium in the body?

Maintains fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve/muscle impulse transmission.

What critical nutrient is required for all metabolic processes in the body?

Water.

What does Body Condition Scoring (BCS) assess?

It assesses the body condition of animals using a scoring system, typically 1-5 or 1-9.

What can excessive protein intake lead to in pets?

Increased workload on the kidneys and potential urinary complications.

What is the significance of the Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) value?

It's an important kidney value indicating the level of urea in the blood, reflecting kidney function.

Arginine

An essential amino acid in felines, critical for the urea cycle to remove ammonia.

Histidine 

Essential amino acid involved in the production of histamine, important for immune response and digestion.

isolecine

An essential branched-chain amino acid crucial for muscle metabolism and immune function.

Lysine

An essential amino acid important for protein synthesis, calcium absorption, and immune function, especially in growth phases.

Luecine

An essential branched-chain amino acid that plays a key role in muscle growth, repair, and regulating blood sugar levels.

Methionine

An essential amino acid that plays a key role in protein synthesis, metabolism, and the maintenance of tissue and liver health.

Phenylalanine

An essential amino acid that is a precursor for neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, and is important for protein synthesis.

Threonine

An essential amino acid that is important for protein synthesis, collagen production, and immune function, and helps maintain intestinal health.

Tryptophan

An essential amino acid that serves as a precursor for serotonin and melatonin, playing a vital role in mood regulation and sleep.

Valine

An essential amino acid that is important for muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and energy production, and helps maintain nitrogen balance in the body.

Taurine

An amino acid that is not classified as essential because it can be synthesized in the body. It plays a crucial role in bile salt formation, eye health, and neurological development.