Companion Animal

Inclusion of Fresh Pork Pancreas in Raw Pork Meat-Based Diets for African Wildcats (Felis silvestris tristrami) does not Impact Macronutrient Digestibility

Authors
  • Cheryl L. Morris (Iowa State University)
  • Kelly Kappen (Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium)

Abstract

Apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility was evaluated in 4 African wildcats (Felis silvestris tristrami) fed beef or pork-based raw meat diets. Diets were formulated to meet nutrient requirements of cats (NRC, 2006). Cats were fed isocaloric amounts of either control (standard beef raw diet) or pork-based raw diets containing 0, 3, or 5% added raw pancreas, in four 14-day periods. Protein digestibility was higher for pork diets compared with beef and inclusion up to 5% fresh pancreas did not increase macronutrient digestibility in healthy animals. Raw pork can be fed to exotic felids as a viable alternative to standard beef-based zoological formulations.

Keywords: Animal Science

How to Cite:

Morris, C. L. & Kappen, K., (2014) “Inclusion of Fresh Pork Pancreas in Raw Pork Meat-Based Diets for African Wildcats (Felis silvestris tristrami) does not Impact Macronutrient Digestibility”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 11(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/ans_air-180814-1154

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Published on
01 Jan 2014
Peer Reviewed