Purina Institute to share findings on feline hydration

The Purina Institute is highlighting studies on the factors that influence feline hydration. As part of its communication to veterinary professionals, a free CPD webinar will take place on Wednesday 9^th December at 8pm. The line up of speakers includes feline specialists, Sarah Caney and Andy Sparkes and leading nutritional researcher, Brian Zanghi from the Purina Institute. Vets and vet nurses are invited to register at https://bit.ly/PurinaInstitute_Register and will be entered into prize draw* to win one of ten goody bags which will include a premium water bottle.

The activity follows on from many years of study into the factors affecting feline hydration. Brian Zanghi’s work primarily focuses on the results of offering nutrient-enriched ‘water supplements’ and the impact on voluntary water intake.¹

Various other studies show an association between increased water intake and improved outcomes in cases of feline lower urinary tract conditions.^2,3 Encouraging water intake may also benefit cats with renal disease or chronic constipation, as well as older animals with osteoarthritis who might be less keen to make repeated trips to their water bowls.

Libby Sheridan, MVB, MRCVS, Purina® Veterinary Technical Affairs Manager, UK & Ireland, says she is delighted to bring together such a stellar line up of speakers to discuss such an important issue, “The importance of good hydration is often under estimated and there are so many factors that can influence intake – from the position of the water bowl, to materials used in the bowl construction and even the level of fill. Deciding when and how to promote increased intake can be difficult and we hope this session will help vets and vet nurses to make those decisions.”

The lecture programme will include a review of clinical evidence, discussion of the benefits of increasing water intake and practical case-based advice from Drs Sparkes and Caney. The event will be recorded for registrants who cannot attend on the day and registrations are accepted until the event starts on the evening of 9^th December.

Registration is now open at https://bit.ly/PurinaInstitute_Register. For more information, contact the PURINA® Veterinary Nutrition Team on 0800 212161.