Markers of inflammation and infection are associated with prolonged recovery in dogs emaciated from long-term inadequate nutrition.

Objective: To characterize the presentation of underweight dogs suffering from long-term inadequate nutrition (LTIN) in suspected cases of animal cruelty, evaluates the efficacy of a feeding protocol, and investigates factors associated with prolonged recovery.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of records evaluating 246 emaciated adult dogs involved in suspected cases of animal cruelty from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2020. Data, including history, weight, clinical signs, parasite test results, hematologic, and urinalysis results, were extracted from the records. Logistic regression models were used to identify significant predictors of delayed weight gain.

Results: Most cases were pit bull-type dogs (180 of 246 [73.2%]) with a body condition score of 1/9 (145 of 246 [58.9%]). No dogs died from medical issues related to LTIN. The mean time for dogs to regain 20% body weight was 4.4 weeks, and the mean time for 30% weight gain was 6.4 weeks. In a multivariable analysis, dogs with hyperglobulinemia and neutrophilia were more likely to take more than 4 weeks to reach 20% of their intake body weight, and dogs with hyperglobulinemia and monocytosis were more likely to take more than 6 weeks to reach 30% of their intake body weight.

Conclusions: This feeding protocol resulted in successful weight gain in dogs that were emaciated due to LTIN. Indicators of inflammation and/or infection were associated with a longer recovery time.

Clinical relevance: Since this feeding protocol resulted in successful weight gain without adverse outcomes, it is recommended for dogs with LTIN.