A study of owner perceptions of health and longevity in dogs and cats fed meat- or plant-based diets.

Plant-based diets have been introduced to the companion animal nutrition market, though little evidence exists to support or refute the nutritional sufficiency of plant-based diets for cats and dogs, or the impacts these diets may have on the health and wellbeing of the animals they are fed to. The proposed study aims to question pet owners regarding their perceptions of their pets’ health and longevity, with a specific comparison of plant-based and conventional diets. This will be achieved through a survey made available to pet owners with questions regarding pet health and nutrition. The partner organization will benefit from a greater understanding of their clients’ pets and pet health, improving their ability to provide appropriate nutrition to these animals.

Faculty Supervisor:

Adronie Verbrugghe

Student:

Sarah Dodd

Partner:

Vecado

Discipline:

Medicine

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University:

University of Guelph