Emerging Advancements in Canine and Feline Metabolism and Nutrition

The pet industry continues to grow in both developed and developing countries. According to the 2015-2016 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 65% of US households own a pet, which encompasses 85.8 million pet cats and 77.8 million pet dogs [1]. In Europe alone, there are another estimated 81 million dogs and 63 million cats, and this market is expected to have a compound annual growth rate of 4.4%, as compared to a 3.5% projected growth rate in the USA [2]. Much of this growth has been stimulated by the increasing appreciation of the value of pets to human health and wellbeing through both physical and emotional effects. Studies indicate associations between pet ownership and(or) animalassisted therapy and numerous aspects of positive health outcomes, ranging from improved cardiovascular health to enhanced mental well-being [3, 4]. Humans, reciprocally, are engaged in gaining a deeper understanding of nutrient requirements and the effects of diet and care practices on the health, metabolism, and behavior of cats and dogs of all ages, breeds, and lifestyles. This special issue adds to the primary literature concerning canine and feline metabolism, nutrition, and behavior.