Panel: Chronic Enteropathy: What Would They Do?

Presentation Description / Summary:
Canine chronic enteropathy (CE) is a common condition defined by the presence of chronic gastrointestinal signs in the absence of an identifiable cause. More and more evidence suggests the majority of dogs with CE have food-responsive disease, but the definition of food-responsive disease and how it encompasses more than adverse food reaction are not well understood by the veterinary community. In this panel discussion, we will define food-responsive enteropathy and explain how it goes well beyond a response to a hydrolyzed diet. We will review the evidence for the available dietary strategies for managing CE, including considerations around moisture content, digestibility, macronutrients (fat, protein, carbohydrates), fiber, vitamins, and minerals. We will discuss how the optimal profile must be individualized based on the patient's dietary history, clinical signs, physical exam, and diagnostic test results. The panel discussion will center around cases in order to use real patient examples to outline the structured dietary approach to CE. This includes selecting the initial diet, using online resources and monitoring tools, transitioning diets, and assessing the response. Choosing the right diet can be challenging, so the panel aims to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to navigate this process and optimize nutritional management for their CE patients.