Background: Fifty to 60% of chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) cases are classified as food responsive. Highly hydrolyzed protein formulas composed of amino acids and low molecular weight peptides have led to remission in otherwise non-diet-responsive dogs. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that response would be greater in dogs fed Royal Canin Ultamino (HP) compared to Select Protein Potato and Rabbit (SP) dry diet. Animals: Client-owned dogs with a history of CIE were recruited from private referral hospitals.
Methods: Clinical investigators and participants were masked, and dogs were randomized to diet. All patients underwent a baseline diagnostic screening and a 2, 4 and 12 week follow up. Clinical response was monitored with the Canine Chronic Enteropathy Clinical Activity Index (CCECAI). Non-responders were offered the opportunity to try the other treatment diet.
Results: Twenty-two dogs completed the study. CCECAI scores improved compared to baseline in both groups at 2, 4, and 12 weeks (p < 0.05). Nine of 11 dogs fed the HP (82%) and 5 of 11 dogs fed the SP (45%) achieved clinical response (CCECAI improved by ≥75% or was ≤ 1). Six dogs initially fed the SP went on to respond to the HPF after being given the opportunity to switch diets. There were no statistical differences in CCECAI or response rate between diet groups. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Both the HP and SP formulas were effective in management of CIE. Dogs that fail to respond to an initial diet trial should undergo a secondary trial, with consideration of a highly hydrolyzed formula.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will be able to describe the nutritional considerations for effectively managing chronic inflammatory enteropathies, including the impact of specific nutrients and dietary strategies on patient outcomes.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify key patient considerations essential for accurately defining food-responsive chronic inflammatory enteropathy, including the importance of individual responses and the necessity of conducting multiple dietary trials before ruling out the role of diet.
Upon completion, participants will be able recognize the importance of ongoing assessment and modification of nutritional strategies based on patient response and evolving clinical evidence.
