Perceptions of Small Animal Nutrition: An Exploration of Education and Self-Reported Proficiency Among Student Veterinary Professionals.

Abstract

Nutrition is an essential knowledge area for student veterinary professionals,^1,2 yet commonly cited as an underrepresented topic in veterinary and veterinary nurse curricula.^3-5 Consequently, veterinary professionals may lack the knowledge, skills, or confidence to counsel clients and provide nutrition-related patient care.^6-8 This study forms the baseline stage of a longitudinal project comparing the nutrition knowledge and competence of first-year veterinary (VS) and veterinary nursing students (VNS) in the UK and Ireland. Participants were recruited by nonprobability, convenience purposive sampling, and by email invitation from educational providers. Data were collected between October 2023 and January 2024. Participation was voluntary and informed consent obtained. 135 VS and 186 VNS completed the online survey. Most (82%, n = 211) expressed interest in learning about nutrition. The ability to educate owners and assess pets' physical condition and nutrition status was considered important by 97% (n = 250) and 98% (n = 253), respectively. Over three-quarters of respondents (77%; n = 178) believed that the diet should be evaluated and discussed at every veterinary visit. Students had greater confidence in their ability to conduct a nutritional assessment on dogs and cats than exotic pets. Fewer students (36%; n = 84) believed cooked diets to be healthier than raw, and perceived risks of raw outweighed benefits (38%; n = 88). Half of respondents were unsure about diet choices. Most VS (77%; n = 67) and VNS (87%; n = 125) deemed vegetarian diets unsuitable for dogs and cats. Students enter their studies with preconceived ideas and potential misinformation about nutrition. Nutrition education must be adequately represented within curricula to protect animal health.