One Size Won’t Fit All: Tailoring Weight Management Plans For Cats
Despite the knowledge that unhealthy weight gain contributes to comorbid conditions, reduced mobility, comfort, quality of life and lifespan,
the prevalence of overweight cats continues to rise in the US feline pet population. The complex nature of this problem can challenge the
success of treatment plans. Taking an individualized approach to weight management by partnering with cat owners and engaging and
empowering the whole team are keys to successful preventive actions as well as successful weight loss and maintenance. Individualized
nutritional plans will not only improve the health of the patient but also the relationship and satisfaction of clients. After participating in this
session, attendees will be able to discuss the prevalence of overweight obesity in cats, be able to use communication tips to help the veterinary
healthcare team build better relationships to engage and empower cat owners to part in their cat’s care, and develop an individualized
nutritional treatment plan to optimize the health and quality of life of overweight cats.
SPEAKER
Julie Churchill, DVM, PhD, DACVN
Dr. Churchill is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and member of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition. Dr. Churchill developed a small
animal clinical nutrition service that was financially self-sustaining within 5 years. She is currently Professor, and director of the Nutrition Service and the Associate
Medical Director for Specialty, Primary and Urgent Care Services at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Churchill is passionate about all aspects of small animal clinical
nutrition including the role of nutrition in maintaining wellness and preventive care, obesity prevention and treatment, the nutrition needs of geriatric patients, nutritional
management of kidney diseases, and critical care nutrition. She is also interested in teaching and improving client communication to successfully integrate nutrition into
the care of every patient. She served on the task force to develop the AAHA guidelines for weight management. She serves as president of the Pet Nutrition Alliance
(PNA) and on the educational tools committee of PNA working to develop a ”Go-to” website for credible nutritional information for veterinary practice teams and
consumers. Dr. Churchill also serves on the Board of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and is advocating for a global pet obesity initiative.
CE APPROVAL
This course has been certified by or provided by the following Certified Organization/s:
• AAVSB-Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) - 1.00 Hours
• New York State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners - 1.00 Hours
This webinar is sponsored by:
