Title: Identify the six basic nutrients and their functions in maintaining animal health.
Course: Veterinary Science I (18105-I) > Section: Understanding Animal Nutrition

Identification should include

- the functions of protein, carbohydrates, lipids (fats), water, vitamins, and minerals
- common sources of these nutrients in an animal’s diet
- the symptoms and treatment of common nutrient deficiencies and excesses
- purposes of feeding various prescription diets (e.g., diabetic, urinary, weight management).

Process/Skill Questions:

- What effect does each of the six basic nutrients have in metabolic function?
- What are possible sources of these basic required nutrients?
- What problems may develop if nutrient requirements are not met?
- How is it possible to ensure a sufficient amount of each basic nutrient in an animal's diet?
- Why is water such an important part of an animal's diet?
- What is meant by the term balanced diet?
- Why should an animal be on a commercial food specific for its species, age, and health status?
- Why do puppies need more protein and calories than an adult dog?
- What are signs of common dietary deficiencies?
- What essential amino acids and essential fatty acids must be included in the diets of dogs and cats?