Nutrition for Cardiovascular Dz

Question 1

Risks of dietary sodium restriction in cardio Dz

Answer 1

can decrease plasma volume and cardiac output

Question 2

Possible benefits of sodium restriction in cardiac Dz

Answer 2

minimizes sodium and water retention, thus reducing blood pressure and workload of the heart

Question 3

Explain a situation in which hypokalemia may develop in a feline patient with cardio Dz

Answer 3

Chronic renal failure b/c kidneys are losing potassium

Question 4

Discuss the suspected importance of carnitine in cardio Dz

Answer 4

• helps cardiac muscles function

- detoxifies mitochondria

Question 5

Discuss the importance of taurine in cardio Dz

Answer 5

without it, cats rapidly develop dilated cardiomyopathy (and retinal degeneration)

Question 6

Know a breed of dog that is at risk for taurine deficiency

Answer 6

American Cocker Spaniel

Question 7

Discuss the practicality of making recommendations for dietary management of cardio Dz

Answer 7

• caloric intake is most important part
• pet must eat!
• can often switch to geriatric version of current diet

Question 8

Why are geriatric diets often beneficial for cardiac Dz patients?

Answer 8

they are sodium restricted and potassium supplemented in addition to calorie restricted and protein restricted

(most companies assume old dogs are overweight and have some degree of heart and kidney disease)