Speaker: A doctor and a veterinarian (Dr. Einertson).
Main Topic: The health impact of commercially available pet food on cats and dogs.
Key Question: Is the food you're buying for your pets making them sick?
Focus: Examining ways to prevent and reverse diseases like diabetes and obesity in pets through proper diet.
Background on Guest: Dr. Einertson
Education: Graduated from Colorado State in 1994; practiced in Alaska and Rochester, Minnesota.
Specialization: Worked with both large and small animals; extensive research on pet diets, particularly for reversing type 2 diabetes in cats and dogs.
Summary of Discussion Points
Common Misconceptions About Pet Food
Veterinary Recommendations: Often promote low-fat, high-carb, high-fiber diets which may not be suitable for carnivorous pets like cats and dogs.
Commercial Pet Foods: Mostly processed and may contribute to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and liver problems.
Discoveries in Pet Health
Dr. Einertson's Findings: Discovered reversal of diabetes in cats by switching to a high-protein, low-carb diet, using foods like canned kitten food.
Diet Evolution: Noted improvements such as reduced obesity, better coat quality, and fewer health issues with a high-protein diet.
Cats vs. Dogs
Cats: Obligate carnivores (need animal-based diet); respond well to high-protein, low-carb, moderate-fat diets. Canned food is beneficial due to higher moisture content.
Dogs: Facultative carnivores (can handle some carbs but thrive on meat-based diets). A high-protein, moderate-fat, low-carb diet is recommended.
Health Benefits of Proper Diets
Weight Loss and Obesity: Noted significant weight loss and overall health improvements with high-protein diets.
Chronic Conditions: Improvements in conditions like chronic cystitis with proper diet adjustments.
Myths and Misconceptions
Protein and Kidney Disease: No credible veterinary literature linking high-protein diets to kidney disease in cats or dogs.
Carbohydrates: Excessive carbs are unnecessary and may lead to insulin spikes and health issues. Cats and dogs require very low to zero carbs.
Practical Feeding Tips
Transitioning to Better Diets: Switch from dry kibble to canned foods or raw meat to see immediate health benefits.
Avoiding Fillers: By-products in canned food are beneficial; avoid plant-based fillers.
Raw vs. Cooked Meat: Raw meat is closer to their natural diet, but ensure balance with necessary nutrients.
Fish and Taurine: Fish is generally good for pets; taurine (an essential amino acid) is vital for cats, found in animal meats.
Fasting: Can be beneficial for pets, but more research needed.
Veterinary Industry Dynamics
Commercial Influence: Pet food companies heavily influence veterinary nutrition advice and education.
Practitioner Awareness: More veterinarians need awareness about the benefits of meat-based diets for pets.
Suggested Key Changes for Pet Owners
Switch to Meat-Based Diets: Whether raw, fresh, or high-quality commercial canned, moving away from high-carb kibble is crucial.
Monitor and Adjust: Watch for improvements in pet health; consult with a knowledgeable veterinarian for specific dietary plans.
Additional Resources
Books: “Dogs, Dog Food, and Dogma” by Daniel Schulof
Websites: Binkie's Page for low-phosphorus canned foods.
Conclusion
Takeaway: A species-appropriate, meat-based diet is essential for the health and longevity of cats and dogs. Consider the diet used, avoid overreliance on commercial kibble, and think critically about nutritional advice.