Surprise Findings in the Crucial Role of Colostrum in the Early Development of Puppies and Kittens

Proper nutrition during the early stages of life is essential for the healthy development of puppies and kittens. As veterinary professionals, we understand the significant impact diet can have on our young patients’ overall health and well-being. Dr Marianne Lomberg, Veterinarian and Business Executive Officer for Purina in South Africa, delves into the science behind feeding practices that support optimal growth and health.

“Nutrition is the foundation of health for puppies and kittens,” says Dr Marianne Lomberg. “Nestlé’s approach to feeding young animals is grounded in extensive research, and it is crucial for veterinary professionals to emphasise the importance of balanced, nutrient-rich diets.”

Colostrum, the initial milk produced by mother dogs and cats and fondly known as ‘nature’s first vaccine”, is rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and nutrients that support the development of the immune system, gut health, and overall growth.

“Giving puppies and kittens the best start is crucial to their development and overall health later in life and the only way to do this in their first few weeks is by feeding them the correct diet.” comments Dr Kate May, Animal Reproduction Specialist (BVSc, MMedVet (Gyn), Dip ACT, PhD) and Senior Lecturer at Onderstepoort Veterinary Faculty.

Following research by the Purina Institute, a global professional organisation researching nutritional innovations to enable cats and dogs to live better, longer lives; scientists at Purina have incorporated colostrum into their PRO PLAN puppy and kitten foods, which has proven to offer several benefits:

Immune Support: Immunoglobulins in colostrum enhance the immune system’s ability to fend off pathogens, protecting kittens and puppies from infections and diseases.3

Gut Health: Colostrum contains bioactive compounds that help to seal the gut lining, preventing harmful pathogens from entering the bloodstream and promoting overall digestive health. It also aids in establishing a beneficial gut flora, which is crucial for digestion and immunity. 2

Growth and Development: Colostrum is rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats, which are vital for the initial growth spurt in puppies and kittens. It is also packed with growth factors like IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) that stimulate cell growth and differentiation, supporting the development of muscles, bones, and other tissues.1

Studies have shown that puppies and kittens fed diets supplemented with colostrum and balanced nutrients, exhibit improved growth rates, better immune responses, and overall enhanced health outcomes. (1), (2), (3) Veterinary professionals should recommend diets that prioritise these components to pet owners.

Dr Marianne Lomberg emphasises, “As veterinarians, we have the responsibility to guide pet owners towards scientifically backed nutrition options. Ensuring that our young patients receive the right nutrients during their critical growth periods can make a significant difference in their long-term health.”

(1) Vighi, G., Marcucci, F., Sensi, L., Di Cara, G., & Frati, F. (2008). Allergy and the gastrointestinal system. Clinical and Experimental Immunology, 153(S1), 3–6. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03713.x

(2) Jean-Philippe, C. Beneficial effects of dietary colostrum supplementation in kittens, Nestlé Purina Scientific Update of Feline Nutrition, Issue 4, 1–8.

(3) Satyaraj, E., Reynolds, A., Pelker, R., Labuda, J., Zhang, P., & Sun, P. (2013). Supplementation of diets with bovine colostrum influences immune function in dogs. British Journal of Nutrition, 110(12), 2216–2221. doi: 10.1017/S000711451300175X