
Full text loading...
PLEASE NOTE A NEW 4TH EDITION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS AVAILABLE IN THE LIBRARY AND IN PRINT
The skin is a large organ, and 25–30% of an animal’s daily protein intake is required for optimal hair growth, cornification and formation of a functional epidermal barrier. Essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamin A, zinc and copper are all known to play a major role in homeostasis of the skin. Owing to the excellence of current commercial diets, true nutrient deficiencies are rarely seen in companion animals and most of the diseases discussed here are characterized as nutrient-responsive dermatoses. However, the quality of the diet is generally reflected in skin health, and changing from a poorly digestible generic diet to one with a better nutrient and digestive profile can often result in an improvement in the appearance of the hair coat and skin. The following subjects are considered: Essential fatty acid-responsive dermatoses; Retinoid-responsive dermatoses; Zinc-responsive dermatoses; Vitamin E dermatoses; and Superficial necrolytic dermatoses.
Full text loading...