Science of Nutrition Symposia

Ragen T. S. McGowan, PhD

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.

Lizzie Parker, PhD

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.

Antonella Muraro, MD, PhD

Ebenezer Satyaraj, PhD

What if the simple act of feeding a cat provided more options for your cat-allergic patients? Learn about an innovative approach that neutralizes the major cat allergen at its source in the cat’s saliva.
This innovation reduces the major cat allergen while keeping the cat in its loving home – allowing you to reframe your conversations with cat-allergic patients.

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.