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As part of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, held with the sponsorship of Kito Healthy Pet Food Ecosystem, we have compiled the key takeaways from the session titled “Ozone Therapy in Companion Animals with Veterinarian Batuhan Natur.” We sincerely thank Dr. Natur for his valuable presentation. During the seminar, Dr. Batuhan Natur covered both the scientific foundations of ozone and how it should be applied in clinical settings in a correct and safe manner. The core message of the session was clearly summarized in two essential statements: Ozone therapy is not the same as “room ozonation” or “air disinfection.” Medical application is fundamentally different. Dosage is everything. When the dose is correct, it is therapeutic; when incorrect, it can be toxic. What Is Ozone? Why Is the Term “Medical Ozone” Emphasized? Ozone (O₃) is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms and has strong oxidative properties. Due to its unstable structure, it rapidly decomposes into O₂ and releases a free oxygen atom. This free oxygen atom is the primary source of ozone’s biological effects. Key characteristics include: A distinct sharp odor (often described as the “earthy smell” after a thunderstorm). Approximately 10 times higher solubility in water compared to oxygen. A short half-life; at room temperature, it loses activity within 20–30 minutes. 📌 For this reason, ozone is not prepared in advance and stored; it must be generated immediately before administration, next to the patient. Critical safety note: The only area where ozone must not be applied is the respiratory system and lungs. Inhalation is toxic. Brief Historical Overview 1839: Discovery of ozone 1840s: Use in operating room disinfection World War I: Significant role in the management of gangrene One of the key pioneers of modern medical ozone therapy: Bocci A Medical Ozone Generator Is Essential (Industrial Devices Are High-Risk) One of Dr. Natur’s strongest warnings concerned device safety: ✅ Medical ozone must be generated using certified medical-grade equipment. ❌ Industrial ozone generators or concentrator/air-based devices are not appropriate for medical use. Why? When ozone is produced from ambient air, nitrogen oxide derivatives may form, which can cause both respiratory and systemic toxicity. A proper medical ozone device should: Operate using a medical oxygen cylinder. Deliver a controlled and measurable concentration range. Safe concentration range: ✅ 1–80 gamma (µg/mL) Key risk point: Industrial devices often produce ozone in grams, which may reach lethal levels. 📌 Device calibration is also critical: A deviation of ±1 gamma may be acceptable; anything beyond that is considered unsafe. Therefore, annual servicing and calibration are mandatory. How Does Ozone Act in the Body? When ozone is introduced into the bloodstream, two key “messenger” groups are generated: ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) LOP (Lipid Oxidation Products) These substances activate the NRF2 pathway within cells and stimulate antioxidant defense gene expression. ✅ Primary Clinical Effects of Ozone Induces controlled oxidative stress → Activates and strengthens endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms. Enhances circulation and oxygenation Facilitates oxygen release from hemoglobin → improved tissue oxygenation. Increases nitric oxide release from the endothelium → supports microcirculation. Modulates immunity (dose-dependent) Low dose → immune activation and antioxidant reinforcement High dose → cytokine suppression and immunosuppressive effect Supports tissue repair Enhances collagen synthesis → accelerates wound healing May increase mitochondrial ATP production → supports general recovery and well-being Dosage Principles (The Most Critical Segment of the Seminar) Dr. Natur categorized clinical dosing as follows: 10–20 gamma: Oxygenation, tissue repair, support in gangrene/ischemia 20–30 gamma: General recovery dose, organ damage support, systemic rehabilitation 40–50 gamma: Antiviral/antimicrobial effects; autoimmune and allergic conditions 60–70 gamma: Severe viral burden + acute rectal bleeding control >80 gamma: Cytotoxic → not used therapeutically 📌 Cancer cases: In his clinical practice, Dr. Natur typically stays at 10 gamma and does not exceed 20 gamma. Routes of Administration Ozone can be administered through multiple routes except via the lungs. Major Autohemotherapy (Ozonation of Blood) 50–250 mL of blood is drawn Mixed with an equal volume of ozone gas Immediately reinfused intravenously Requires 8–15 sessions (2–3 times per week) Clinical applications: infections, circulatory disorders, oncology support, autoimmune diseases, organ insufficiencies, diabetes. Important materials note: Ozone-resistant tubing and syringes must be used (glass/teflon/siliconized). Standard plastic syringes and infusion sets may pose a microplastic release risk. Rectal Insufflation (Systemic and Practical) One of the most practical systemic approaches in small animals. More sessions may be required compared to major autohemotherapy. Recommended volumes: Cats: 20–30 mL Small dogs: 30–60 mL Medium–large dogs: 60–150 mL 📌 Rapid administration or excessive volume may increase the risk of colon distension or rupture. Minor Autohemotherapy (“Ozone Vaccine”) 2–10 mL of blood is drawn Mixed with an equal volume of ozone Administered SC/IM This may be considered a nonspecific immune-supportive approach and may be preferred for allergic, viral, and dermatologic autoimmune conditions. Bag/Cup Ozonation (Local Application) Commonly used for chronic or infected wounds. The wound and the interior of the bag are moistened (ozone is ineffective on dry surfaces). The bag is vacuum-sealed. Ozone is introduced for 15–20 minutes. Dosage strategy: Infected phase: 70–80 gamma Healing phase: 20–30 gamma Local Injections May be administered intramuscularly, perilesionally, paravertebrally, or at acupuncture points. Typically 10–20 gamma in small volumes (0.1–0.3 mL). Intra-articular applications: Used for OA, arthritis, meniscal conditions, etc. For acute cases, ozone is recommended first, followed by PRP. Dr. Natur noted that combining PRP with ozone may enhance PRP efficacy. Intradiscal / Foraminal Ozone (Notable in Neurology) This was one of the most striking sections of the seminar. Within the intervertebral disc, ozone may: reduce inflammation decrease disc volume by facilitating dehydration reduce pain Dr. Natur shared cases where paraplegic dogs regained the ability to walk within weeks, including a chronic paraplegic case of six months’ duration that stood again within 45 days. Protocol approach: First-line: paravertebral/foraminal ozone (less invasive) If no response within 3–5 days → intradiscal ozone (general anesthesia + fluoroscopic guidance) Where Can Ozone Therapy Be Effective? Ozone therapy has a wide range of clinical applications in veterinary practice, including: Viral diseases (e.g., parvovirus, distemper) Dermatology (atopic dermatitis, chronic otitis, wound management) Orthopedics (OA, tendon and meniscal disorders) Neurology (disc herniation, epilepsy support) Diabetic wounds and gangrene Supportive care in kidney/liver insufficiency Autoimmune and rheumatic diseases Gynecological infections such as mastitis and endometritis (supported in the literature) Critical Warning Regarding “Ozonated Serum” At the end of the session, Dr. Natur emphasized an important caution: ❌ Ozonating isotonic solutions/serum is not true ozone therapy. When ozone reacts with isotonic fluids, sodium hypochlorite may form, shifting the procedure toward a chemical effect (similar to bleach-like reactions) rather than biological ozone therapy. Conclusion: Ozone Is Not “Alternative”—It Is a Powerful Clinical Tool When Used Correctly The clinical impact of ozone therapy can be substantial when applied under appropriate conditions: ✅ With the right device, correct dose, and proper materials, ozone may: help control infections support circulation accelerate regeneration reduce pain modulate immune function ❌ With an incorrect device or uncontrolled dosing, it may: become toxic cause more harm than benefit The clinical summary of the seminar was captured in the following statement: “Ozone is not a cure-all, but with the right protocol it can provide significant support in many conditions.” We will continue sharing key takeaways from VetSummit 2025 sessions under the sponsorship of Kito Healthy Pet Food Ecosystem. We look forward to meeting you again in upcoming content designed to support your clinical practice. For more information about Kito, please visit www.kito.pet, follow us on social media, or contact us at info@kito.pet.

In this blog post, we have compiled the key takeaways from the session titled “Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stasis/Obstruction in Rabbits – with Research Assistant Dr. Ebuderda Günay”, held as part of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, sponsored by the Kito Healthy Nutrition Ecosystem. We would like to thank our professor for the presentation. Gastrointestinal Syndrome in Rabbits: A Silent Start, a Rapidly Growing Clinical Challenge In exotic animal medicine, there are some diseases that are “very common, yet still not taken seriously enough.” Rabbit gastrointestinal syndrome (GI stasis/obstruction) is exactly such a condition. A quarter of the rabbits brought to clinics arrive with this complaint. Moreover, the problem usually doesn’t begin “all at once”; small factors such as improper feeding, dental problems, stress, and dehydration accumulate—and within 2–3 years, they can turn into a major clinical crisis. Our speaker explained this syndrome clearly, starting from rabbit anatomy and moving through current treatment approaches. The main message of the talk was: “If a rabbit’s gut stops, everything stops. If you catch it early you can save it; if you are late, the race becomes much harder.” A Rabbit Is Not a Rodent, but a Lagomorph: Everything Starts Here To understand GI syndrome in rabbits, the first correct fact is: A rabbit is not a rodent. Rabbits belong to the lagomorph group, and their digestion differs significantly from rodents. This is why “rabbit feeds” sold on the same shelves as rodent feeds in pet shops can cause chronic problems. Rabbit digestion is built on: high fiber + intense fermentation. When this system breaks down, the first thing to collapse rapidly is intestinal motility. The Cecum Is the Heart of the Digestive System When you look at a rabbit’s digestive system, the most striking feature is the enormous cecum: It makes up 40% of the total digestive system volume Fermentation happens here Energy comes largely from volatile fatty acids (acetate, butyrate, propionate) Vitamin K, B vitamins, and microbial protein synthesis occur here If the cecal flora becomes disrupted (dysbiosis): gas forms, toxins increase, energy production decreases, intestinal sluggishness begins. In other words, the main groundwork for GI syndrome is established in the cecum. Rabbits Cannot Vomit: A Small Detail With Huge Clinical Consequences Because of the strong cardiac sphincter at the stomach entrance, rabbits cannot vomit. What does this mean? Preoperative fasting is often unnecessary. But if the stomach–intestinal tract becomes obstructed even once, the contents cannot move back out. A bloated stomach rapidly worsens the animal’s condition. Also, because the stomach pH is very low (1–2): most standard probiotics die in the stomach, which is why probiotic use in rabbits is controversial. Cecotrophs: “Normal Mistaken for Diarrhea” and Owner Misinterpretation Rabbits produce two types of stool: Normal pellet feces (hard, like olive pits) Cecotrophs (soft, smelly, mucous; stick near the anus and are re-ingested) Owners often mistake cecotrophs for diarrhea and panic, bringing the rabbit to the clinic. The veterinarian should ask: “Have you seen the hard pellet feces?” If pellet feces are being produced, the rabbit does not have diarrhea. Most often the issue is diet + obesity + inability to eat cecotrophs. Explaining this correctly prevents unnecessary antibiotics and stops the cycle of improper feeding. Diet = The Number One Cause of This Syndrome Perhaps the clearest message of the seminar was this: 85–90% of a rabbit’s diet must be hay. The ideal ratio: 85% hay (alfalfa / grass hay, etc.) 10% leafy greens 5% pellet feed Hay is essential not only for nutrition, but also for: wearing down teeth, intestinal motility, balancing cecal flora. In diets high in carbohydrates and low in fiber: Clostridium species increase, toxins and gas are produced, digestive pain + appetite loss begin, the gut slows and eventually stops. In practice, GI syndrome is often “the explosion of an animal that has been fed incorrectly for years.” Risk Factors: Why the Syndrome Has No Single Cause Rabbit GI syndrome is multifactorial: Fiber deficiency / improper diet Dental disease Stress and environmental changes Pain and other systemic diseases Dehydration Trichobezoar (hairball) accumulation A critical point: Trichobezoars are not the cause—they are the result. When gut motility slows, hair clumps together, forms a mass, and causes blockage. Saying “I saw a hairball, so that must be the problem” is incomplete — the true issue is the loss of motility. GI Stasis or Obstruction? Making the Distinction Saves Lives There are two main conditions: GI Stasis: motility slows/stops but there is no full blockage Obstruction: mechanical blockage exists (hairball, foreign body, etc.) How to distinguish: Palpation + radiography. On X-ray: In stasis, the stomach is dough-like, full, but gas–fluid levels are not clearly defined. In obstruction, the stomach becomes extremely enlarged, with clear gas + fluid levels. (The speaker describes this as a “boiled egg appearance.”) Obstruction location is also classified: proximal (stomach exit) distal (end of small intestine) colon (very rare) This classification guides treatment decisions. Clinical Alarm Findings: When Does Prognosis Worsen?  If body temperature drops below 36.6°C, mortality risk increases. Blood glucose above 300–360 mg/dl strongly indicates obstruction. Above 444 mg/dl is a critical threshold: prognosis becomes seriously worse. Important note: High glucose in rabbits does not mean diabetes. Glucose rises sharply during stress and obstruction — it’s a metabolic alarm signal. Updated Treatment Paradigm: Medical First, Surgery Second Old approach: “Operate immediately.” New approach (2024–2025 literature): Start with aggressive medical therapy, and only proceed to surgery if there is no response. Backbone of medical treatment: Rehydration: 100 ml/kg/day fluids (SC if needed, mostly IV) Pain control: meloxicam, butorphanol Gas relief: simethicone Force-feeding (to prevent hepatic lipidosis): Critical Care / Oxbow-type formulas Prokinetic support: metoclopramide (effect debated but can be used) Lidocaine / FLK protocol: lidocaine shown to greatly increase motility FLK (fentanyl-lidocaine-ketamine) is strong, but fentanyl access is difficult in practice, lidocaine + ketamine + opioid combinations are effective Medical treatment success rates in many studies: 80–90%. When Is Surgery Needed? And Why Is It Always Risky? If after 24–48 hours of medical therapy: glucose does not decrease, X-rays show no progress, clinical improvement does not begin, then surgery is considered. But the reality of surgery is clear: average survival rate is around 47% if postoperative care is poor, this drops even further That’s why the speaker emphasized this principle: “Advancing the blockage is better than cutting the intestines.” Whenever possible, pushing the mass into the stomach/cecum and emptying it from there is preferred. Conclusion: Rabbit GI Syndrome Is a Battle of “Feeding + Motility” This seminar reminded us of the most critical lesson in rabbit medicine: A rabbit’s intestines do not tolerate stopping. No fiber → flora imbalance → increased gas → pain → motility stops → hairball forms → obstruction occurs. If caught early, it can largely be resolved with medical treatment. If caught late, even surgery cannot guarantee success. That’s why the simplest but most life-saving question in a rabbit patient is: “What does it eat, how much water does it drink, and what is its stool like?” A veterinarian who interprets these answers correctly can stop this syndrome before it even begins. We will continue sharing key insights from the sessions of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, held under the sponsorship of the Kito Healthy Nutrition Ecosystem. See you in our next content that will contribute to your clinical practice. For more information about Kito, you can visit www.kito.pet and follow our social media accounts. To contact us, you can email info@kito.pet.

Held within the scope of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, organized under the sponsorship of Kito as part of the Healthy Pet Food Ecosystem, we have compiled the key takeaways from this session for you in this blog post. We would like to thank our esteemed speaker for his valuable presentation. Sonographic Interpretation of Kidney Diseases: A Roadmap for Clinical Practice In veterinary medicine, kidney diseases are among the most frequently encountered internal medicine problems, especially in cats and dogs. Ultrasonography is both a practical and a highly powerful tool in the diagnosis and follow-up of these conditions. However, the true value of ultrasound emerges not as a standalone diagnostic tool, but when it is interpreted together with the clinical picture and laboratory data. Why Is Ultrasonography So Important in Kidney Diseases? The prevalence of kidney diseases in cats and dogs is approximately 10–15%. The sensitivity of ultrasonography is particularly high in chronic kidney disease, with up to 86% of morphological changes detectable via ultrasound. In acute kidney injury, this rate ranges between 70–75%, and when Doppler imaging and the resistive index are included, the evaluation becomes much clearer and more accurate. The advantages of ultrasonography are quite distinct:  Non-invasive and painless Repeatable Easy to perform Provides guidance prior to biopsy A method that delivers rapid and reliable information throughout the clinical process The Right Device – The Right Probe – The Right Settings  The success of ultrasonographic evaluation does not depend solely on the operator; device and probe selection are also of critical importance. Probe selection:  Microconvex/convex probe in dogs (generally 5–8 MHz) Linear probe (the probe that provides the best renal detail; 7–12 MHz) Technical settings:  The focal zone should be positioned over the renal cortex  Gain (contrast) settings should be balanced according to liver echogenicity Depth should be adjusted so that the entire kidney fits within the imaging frame Normal Sonographic Anatomy of the Kidney  The first step in recognizing a pathological image is having a solid understanding of normal anatomy. In a normal renal ultrasound: The cortex has medium echogenicity (more hyperechoic than the liver, more hypoechoic than the spleen) The medulla appears more hypoechoic (darker than the cortex) The cortex-to-medulla ratio is approximately 1.5 The renal pelvis is mostly anechoic Right and left kidney sizes should be symmetrical  (the difference should not exceed 0.3 cm) It is very important to remember the echogenicity hierarchy:  Liver < Renal cortex < Spleen Do Not Mistake Artifacts for Pathology Many artifacts observed in urinary system ultrasonography can actually assist in diagnosis. However, some may be physiological. Commonly encountered artifacts include: Acoustic shadowing: a very valuable finding for stones/mineralization Posterior acoustic enhancement: interpreted in favor of fluid or cysts Twinkle artifact (color twinkling): when Doppler is activated, color noise over a stone; pathognomonic for urolithiasis with approximately 90% diagnostic accuracy Ultrasonographic Findings in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) The most important sonographic changes associated with CKD include: Decreased kidney size in cats usually <3 cm  in small dogs <5.5 cm Irregular contours (due to fibrosis) Hyperechoic cortex (increased fibrotic tissue) Loss of corticomedullary differentiation Small anechoic cysts (<5 mm) may be present Increased resistive index Marked cortical thinning Ultrasonographic Findings in Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) In acute processes, renal morphology behaves completely differently from chronic disease: Increased kidney size (approximately 0.35 cm enlargement) Hypoechoic cortex (darker appearance due to edema) Corticomedullary differentiation is preserved Perirenal fluid may sometimes accompany Hyperperfusion may be observed on Doppler imaging Resistive index is normal or low If the acute process becomes chronic (progressing to fibrosis), the imaging findings may reverse. Acute vs Chronic Differentiation Table (Practical Summary)  Findings Acute Kidney Injury Chronic Kidney Disease Size Increased Decreased Cortical echogenicity Hypoechoic Hyperechoic Cortex/medulla differentiation Preserved Lost  Resistive index Normal or low High Clinical presentation Acute azotemia, vomiting PU/PD, weight loss, chronic symptoms Urine specific gravity Normal or mildly decreased Persistently low Findings in Urolithiasis and Obstruction Cases Key points to consider in stone and obstruction cases: Renal pelvis width >3 mm → mild dilation 5–10 mm or greater → evaluated as hydronephrosis Stones appear hyperechoic with acoustic shadowing and twinkle artifact Ureteral dilation >2.5 mm supports obstruction Prolonged obstruction leads to decreased cortical thickness Resistive Index (RI): Why Is It Important? RI is a measurement of vascular resistance against the main blood flow supplying the kidney. The basic formula is: RI = (PSV – EDV) / PSV Normal values: Cat: 0.55–0.70 Dog: 0.56–0.75 Conditions associated with increased RI: Obstruction Fibrosis Hypertension Chronic kidney disease Conditions associated with decreased RI: Inflammation Vasodilation Acute processes Important note: An increase of 0.05 in RI correlates with approximately a 15% decrease in GFR. Most Common Mistakes in Clinical Practice  Common errors that complicate diagnosis in renal ultrasonography include: Not using a reference organ (interpreting echogenicity without comparison to liver/spleen) Evaluating only one kidney (right and left must always be compared) Ignoring bladder filling (can mislead pelvis measurements) Mistaking artifacts for stones or vice versa Not using Doppler imaging Final Note: Ultrasound Alone Is Not Enough Ultrasound is a true compass in kidney diseases—but it is not the destination on its own. The most accurate approach includes: Clinical examination Laboratory data Urinalysis / UPC / SDMA Integrated interpretation of ultrasound findings With this approach, diagnostic accuracy can exceed 90%. We will continue to share key highlights from the sessions of VetSummit 2025: New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, held under the sponsorship of Kito as part of the Healthy Pet Food Ecosystem. We look forward to meeting you in future content that will contribute to your clinical practice. For more detailed information about Kito, you can visit www.kito.pet and follow our social media accounts. To contact us, you may email info@kito.pet.

Wanting the best for our pets is only natural. However, when it comes to defining what “the best” truly is, we now have far more scientific data and far more options than ever before—especially when it comes to fresh, whole-food nutrition. Today, I want to talk to you about a striking study conducted by Purdue University and why its findings make fresh-food options like Kito Fresh even more valuable today. What Does Science Say? The Purdue University Study A study conducted in 2005 at Purdue University on Scottish Terriers revealed that adding fresh vegetables to commercial dry food significantly slowed down or prevented the development of bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma). [Raghavan, Knapp, Bonney, 2005] In the study, all dogs were fed dry kibble, but one group had a variety of fresh vegetables added to their meals at least three times per week. The results were not surprising but incredibly impressive: Dogs consuming green leafy vegetables had a 90% lower risk of developing bladder cancer. Dogs consuming yellow orange vegetables had a 70% lower risk. The most critical takeaway from this study was that it scientifically demonstrated the protective effects of fresh, natural foods at the metabolic and cellular level. Cats and Dogs: Meat-Based, Yet in Need of Plant Support Yes, cats are obligate carnivores; they must consume meat-based protein to survive. Dogs, on the other hand, are facultative carnivores; they obtain most of their energy from meat but can also metabolize plant-based sources when needed. However, under today’s conditions, the situation has changed somewhat: Industrial livestock farming → GMO-based feeds Agricultural land → pesticide, fungicide, and herbicide exposure Water and soil → heavy metal residues All of these factors increase the toxic load coming from animal-based products. Therefore, fresh, organic plant-based foods and clean meat sources are now more critical than ever. Why Do Fresh Foods Make Such a Big Difference? Fresh vegetables and fruits are extremely rich in: antioxidants phytochemicals vitamins fiber These components do more than just provide vitamins. They also: support cellular repair accelerate detoxification reduce inflammation and make the body more resilient against cancer This Is Exactly Why Kito Fresh Exists: Real Meat + Real Vegetables + Real Freshness Today, many pet parents guided by both scientific findings and intuition have begun to recognize the importance of fresh ingredients in nutrition. Kito Fresh offers an approach that directly responds to this need: Human-grade, high-quality meat Carefully selected fresh vegetables Gentle cooking methods that preserve nutritional value Absolutely no artificial additives or preservatives All of these features, as supported by the Purdue study, translate the health benefits of fresh ingredients into everyday nutrition. Freshness Is Not a Luxury It’s a Necessity Science now clearly tells us this: Adding fresh ingredients directly impacts long-term health. To help our pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives, adding a bit of freshness to their bowls makes a profound difference. And options like Kito Fresh make this transformation both easy and sustainable. Source: Deborah W. Knapp, José A. Ramos-Vara, George E. Moore, Deepika Dhawan, Patty L. Bonney, Kirsten E. Young Urinary Bladder Cancer in Dogs, a Naturally Occurring Model for Cancer Biology and Drug Development ILAR Journal, Volume 55, Issue 1, 2014, Pages 100–118, https://doi.org/10.1093/ilar/ilu018 www.kito.pet

In recent years, many dog owners have been turning to natural, additive-free options in feeding their pets. New-generation fresh dog foods have become increasingly popular due to ingredient control, freshness, and the idea of “human-grade nutrition.” Many people are also adapting to this shift by cooking or preparing food for their dogs at home. However, a comprehensive scientific study conducted recently suggests that the trend of home-cooked dog food may not be as safe as we think. How Balanced Is Homemade Food? 1,726 Homemade Diets Were Examined; Researchers (a joint study by the Dog Aging Project / Texas A&M University and Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine) analyzed the nutritional value of 1,726 homemade dog food recipes prepared by owners. Although the ingredients varied, the study’s critical finding was striking: Only 6% of the recipes had the potential to meet dogs’ complete and balanced nutritional needs. In other words: 94% of homemade dog foods are nutritionally inadequate or unbalanced. These imbalances were especially concentrated in the following areas: Disrupted calcium–phosphorus ratios Vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, etc.) Essential fatty acid insufficiency Trace mineral deficiencies Improper energy distribution Over the long term, these deficiencies may negatively affect vital systems such as bone health, immunity, metabolism, and skin/coat condition. Why Is Homemade Food Deficient? The main reason homemade recipes become problematic is that nutritional balance cannot be achieved through simple or intuitive methods. Ingredients being natural or seeming high quality is not sufficient on its own. Dogs’ biological needs differ from humans’, and these needs must be calculated according to professional nutrition standards. In addition, dog owners often make frequent changes to recipes reducing ingredient amounts, removing certain items thinking “it’s optional,” or using different oils. Even small changes like these can make a recipe deficient. What Should Those Who Want to Prepare Homemade Food Do? Researchers emphasize the following recommendations for people who prefer homemade diets: Recipes formulated by professional nutrition experts must be used. Altering recipes can disrupt nutritional balance. Vitamin-mineral supplementation should be planned if necessary. Homemade food can be much riskier for dogs with chronic illnesses or special needs. So What’s the Solution? The idea of homemade dog food often starts with love and good intentions. But good intentions alone are not enough to meet a dog’s biological needs. For a balanced and safe nutrition plan, scientific recipes, correct formulation, and professional oversight are essential. At this point, fresh foods prepared with special formulations stand out as a strong alternative that can eliminate the risks of homemade diets. How Does Kito Fresh Fit Into This Picture? Kito Fresh fresh foods take the positive aspects of the homemade trend (freshness, naturalness, no additives) while professionally completing the critical parts that require scientific formulation. Recipes are developed by veterinarian nutrition experts. The ingredient standard aims for human food quality. Vitamin-mineral balance and the calcium–phosphorus ratio are planned scientifically. No preservatives or artificial additives are used. For this reason, Kito Fresh offers dog owners who want natural nutrition and also want to meet all their dog’s nutritional needs completely a safe and balanced option that fills the gaps left by homemade food. Source: O'Brien JS, Lawson E; Dog Aging Project Consortium; Tolbert MK, Ruple A. Findings from the Dog Aging Project: home-prepared diets for companion dogs feature diverse ingredients, and few are nutritionally complete. Am J Vet Res. 2025 Aug 27;86(11):ajvr.25.06.0216. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.25.06.0216. PMID: 40865554.

As a brand dedicated to the health and happiness of our beloved pets, we were delighted to sponsor VetSummit 2025 – New Horizons in Veterinary Clinical Sciences. A Platform Where Science and Experience Met Held online between October 13–24, 2025, VetSummit 2025 addressed current developments and practices in veterinary clinical sciences. During the event, participants attended evening sessions featuring experts in their fields, covering topics such as: Prof. Dr. Dr. Hakan Salcı – Thoracic, Cardiac, and Vascular Surgery in Cats and Dogs Prof. Dr. Duygu Dalgın – Looking Toward the Future in Veterinary Field Practice: Potentials, Opportunities, Making a Difference Prof. Dr. Pınar Saçaklı – The World Within Us: Gut Health and Nutrition Arş. Gör. Dr. Ebuderda Günay – Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stasis/Obstruction in Rabbits Veterinarian Batuhan Nathur – Ozone Therapy in Companion Animals  Prof. Dr. Yücel Meral – My Dog Suddenly Fainted While Walking in the Park! Cardiology Emergencies Dr. Veterinarian Onur İskefli – Dilated Cardiomyopathy Veterinarian Batuhan Elifoğlu – Introduction to Oral and Dental Health in Cats and Dogs: Anatomy, Dental Charting, and COHAT  Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Pınar Can – Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Small Animals Dr. Veterinarian Başar Ulaş Sayılkan – Pulmonary Hypertension Dr. Veterinarian Erman Koral – Lower Urinary Tract Diseases in Cats and Dogs  Veterinarian Yusuf Sefa Dedeoğlu – Sonographic Interpretation of Kidney Diseases Participants had the opportunity to ask questions during the live sessions, and all recordings will remain available for replay for 60 days. Why Was Kito at This Event? At Kito, our mission is not only to offer high-quality, natural products, but also to actively support scientific advancements in pet health. In line with this mission, we: Contributed to the exchange of knowledge and experience among veterinarians, Shared our vision on nutrition and welfare grounded in scientific approaches with the veterinary community,  Had the opportunity to present our “human-grade pet food” philosophy to a broader professional audience. What Remains From the Event Throughout VetSummit 2025, hundreds of veterinary clinicians, academics, and industry professionals came together on the same digital platform. As Kito, we were proud to be part of a valuable community that integrates scientific perspectives with our brand. This sponsorship was not merely a promotional step, but an initiative that contributed to sustainable knowledge sharing in pet health. Thank You As the Kito family, we extend our gratitude to all instructors, participants, and partners who contributed to this organization. Guided by science, we will continue working to enhance the quality of life of our beloved animal companions. See you at future events!

"Homemade diets are a significant nutritional strategy that enhances overall health and quality of life in both healthy and sick dogs. The study demonstrates that homemade diets serve as an effective tool in veterinary practices, yielding successful results in symptom management." As awareness among pet owners about their dogs' nutrition grows rapidly, homemade diets are becoming increasingly popular. A recent study highlights the positive effects of homemade diets on dogs' overall health. In this article, we explore the importance, outcomes, and implementation details of homemade diets based on the findings of the study titled "Homemade Diet as a Paramount for Dogs’ Health." Objective and Scope of the Study This study was conducted on 167 dogs of various ages, genders, and health conditions. The participants included both healthy dogs and those with various pathological (diseased) conditions. The primary objective of the research was to evaluate the long-term effects of homemade diets and to assess the adherence rates of dog owners to these diets. The study particularly focused on the following health conditions: Gastrointestinal diseases (chronic diarrhea, vomiting, reflux) Dermatological issues (dermatitis, otitis, tear staining) Dogs experiencing both conditions simultaneously Data and Findings Participant Profile Total of 167 dogs: 30% mixed-breed, 70% purebred. Age range: 7 months – 14 years. 75% spayed females, 57% neutered males. Diet Types and Preferences Diet Type Initial (n) Final (n) Change (%) Homemade diet 55 (26 mixed) 104 (24 mixed) +62% Commercial food 112 63 -38%   A significant increase was observed in the number of dogs using homemade diets (p < 0.0001). The main reasons for discontinuing the diet were owner compliance issues (27%) and dogs not adapting to the new diet (15%). Observations in Healthy Dogs Coat Quality: 70% improvement in shine and softness. Defecation Frequency: 47% decrease. Overall Energy and Appetite: Stable. Observations in Sick Dogs Condition Improvement Rate Gastrointestinal diseases 95% Dermatological diseases 83% Dogs with both conditions 100%   Homemade diets were found to significantly alleviate symptoms, particularly in dogs suffering from chronic enteropathy (intestinal diseases) and dermatological issues. Features of Homemade Diets Homemade diets are tailored to meet the individual needs of each dog. The primary components include: Protein Sources: Chicken, turkey breast, beef. Carbohydrates: Rice, potatoes, couscous. Fats: Salmon oil, sunflower oil. Vegetables: Zucchini, carrots, peas. The meals are typically prepared by steaming or boiling with minimal water and are recommended to be served in two daily portions. Benefits of the Diet Significant improvements were observed in coat quality, energy levels, and appetite among dogs that adhered to the homemade diet. Parameter Odds Ratio (OR) p-Value Appetite 4.07 0.003 ** Energy Level 3.47 0.017 * Coat Quality 9.88 <0.001 *** Defecation Frequency 0.01 0.93 Defecation Consistency 0.01 0.97   Features of Homemade Diets Improved Digestive Health: A 95% improvement was observed in dogs with gastrointestinal issues. Natural and Fresh Ingredients: Prepared using human-grade food, preserving nutritional value. Reduction in Health Problems: 100% symptom improvement in dogs with both gastrointestinal and dermatological conditions. Challenges and Kito Fresh’s Solutions Owner Compliance: Preparing homemade diets can be time-consuming, requiring owner education and process simplification. / Kito Fresh can be stored at room temperature and served in its specially designed, easy-to-open packaging. Supplement Usage: 21% of owners discontinued supplements due to flavor incompatibility (93%) and difficulty in accessibility (7%). / Kito Fresh provides all necessary vitamins and minerals from its ingredients, eliminating the need for supplements. Conclusion Homemade diets are a significant nutritional strategy that enhances overall health and quality of life in both healthy and sick dogs. The study demonstrates that homemade diets serve as an effective tool in veterinary practices, yielding successful results in symptom management. Balanced diets tailored to individual needs should be recommended by veterinarians and nutrition experts for optimal outcomes. References Pignataro, G., Crisi, P.E., Landolfi, E., et al. (2024). Homemade Diet as a Paramount for Dogs’ Health: A Descriptive Analysis. Vet. Sci. 11(438). DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11090438.