Purina Institute Events

Andrew Sparkes, BVetMEd, PhD, DECVIM, MANZCS, MRCVS

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.

Ebenezer Satyaraj, PhD

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.

Andrew Sparkes, BVetMEd, PhD, DECVIM, MANZCS, MRCVS

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.

Andrew Sparkes, BVetMEd, PhD, DECVIM, MANZCS, MRCVS

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.

Andrea J. Fascetti, VMD, PHD, DACVIM (SAIM, NUTRITION)

Cecilia Villaverde Haro, BVSC, PHD, DACVIM (NUTRITION), DECVCN

Leading veterinary nutrition experts discuss key aspects of life stage nutrition, including the impact of growth, neutering, obesity and aging. Drs. Fascetti and Villaverde provide practical, evidence-based advice regarding the timing of proactive life stage-based nutritional interventions, as well as tips for initiating client conversations and improving compliance.

Marge Chandler, DVM, MS, MANZCVS, DACVIM (SAIM, NUTRITION), MRCVS

Shoshana Verton-Shaw, RVT, VTS (NUTRITION)

A case-based discussion with international veterinary nutrition specialists on having meaningful nutrition conversations with pet owners. The conversation reviews why nutrition is challenging to discuss -- it is an emotional, complex and scientific area of veterinary medicine. Tips on how veterinary professionals can use the circle of nutrition in their client conversations are also provided.

Galia Sheinberg, DVM, ESP, DLACVD

Alison Manchester, DVM, DACVIM

Martha G. Cline, DVM, DACVIM (NUTRITION)

A case-focused discussion with global experts who share their unique perspectives on dietary elimination trials, including how they integrate nutrition conversations with clients into their everyday practice.

Julie Churchill, DVM, PhD, DACVN Sarah Abood, DVM, PhD

Nutrition is integral to proactive veterinary care and provides patients and their human families with the best available care. Dr. Julie Churchill and Dr. Sarah Abood provide thoughtful advice on how to have nutrition conversations that build client trust.

Jörg M. Steiner, Med Vet, Dr Med Vet, PhD, DACVIM-SAIM, DECVIM-CA, AGAF

Hear a brief overview of intestinal microbiota composition and importance, followed by an in-depth review of different methods for evaluating the gut microbiota with a focus on assay practicality and feasibility.