Probiotics are live microorganisms that when administered in adequate amounts confer a beneficial health effect on the host. Most information about pet probiotics focuses on gastrointestinal disease management. But could a probiotic modulate the immune response of dogs and cats? Dr. Michael Lappin reviews evidence that shows some probiotics may enhance or dampen the immune system.

When it comes to cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), veterinary professionals need to feed the cat, not just the kidneys. Explore the functions of diet for cats with CKD, key nutrients of concern and supporting evidence. Dr. Dottie Laflamme outlines important considerations when selecting a diet for geriatric cats with CKD.

Anxiety-related behavioral issues are a top reason why pet owners relinquish dogs to shelters. Learn about anxiety prevalence, its signs, contributing factors and methods for modification. Dr. McGowan details the research that supports the roles of nutrition, the gut-brain axis and a novel dietary intervention in behavioral modification of anxious dogs.

A significant evolution in nutritional science has occurred during the past 20 years. Learn about science-based nutritional interventions for dogs and cats that demonstrate the true power of nutrition.

What do veterinarians need to know about human allergies to cats? Get a brief overview of the condition, including its prevalence, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management. Since human allergies to cats impact cat welfare and the human-animal bond, veterinary professionals may be able to help clients reduce their exposure to cat allergens as part of allergy management.

Allergy to cats is one of the most common animal-origin allergies in humans and affects as many as one in five adults worldwide. Cat allergies have significant consequences for humans and cats. A novel, simple solution safely reduces cat allergens, offering an opportunity to bring cats and people closer together and benefitting pets and their owners. Explore the science behind the innovation and the research that supports its efficacy and safety.

Many factors can affect and alter the bond between owner and cat. The human-animal bond, including why people choose to own or not own a pet, is briefly reviewed. Discover what research reveals about the reasons pets, particularly cats, are relinquished.

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a common syndrome in veterinary practice and typically represents 4-6% of cases presented in general practice. While a number of different identifiable causes of FLUTD are recognised, studies have found that feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) accounts for 55-75% of cases. An evidence-based review of the causes and management of FIC is provided, with an emphasis on dietary management and environmental modification.

Encouraging cats to consume more water is an important recommendation in a number of situations, including conditions associated with polyuria or increased fluid loss, lower urinary tract disease, chronic constipation and advanced age. Using different cases from her practice, Dr. Caney provides suggestions for supporting patient hydration and encouraging voluntary fluid intake.

Cats are efficient at maintaining hydration. However, those cats with certain health conditions may benefit from greater total water intake. Dr. Sparkes provides a brief overview of feline hydration and the conditions in which water intake may be critical for health.

Studies have indicated that water supplements can be highly palatable to cats. These studies demonstrated that cats not only drink more liquid, but maintained higher liquid intake when given access to nutrient-enriched water. Consequently, urine volume increased and urine specific gravity decreased. Cats that need greater hydration would benefit from a water supplement.

Explore future dates and topics of free continuing veterinary education virtual events brought to you by the Purina Institute.