EFFECT OF STARVATION IN NORMAL DOG INCLUDING DALMATIAN COACH HOUND

Metabolic balance studies were undertaken during a 12-day fasting period in 6 mongrel and 4 Dalmatian dogs. No evidence of ketosis could be demonstrated during this period. Plasma bicarbonate concentration remained normal. Mean urinary ammonia and titratable acid fell markedly so that net acid excretion dropped from 59 to 23 mEq./day. Mean total urinary nitrogen excretion decreased from 7.2 to 3.3 Gm./day during starvation. A modest rise in urinary pH (0.18 unit) was observed during fasting. No change in urinary or plasma uric acid values could be demonstrated in either mongrel or Dalmatian dogs. Serum phospholipids, cholesterol and triglycerides were not modified during starvation while nonesterified fatty acids rose from 740 to 1000 μEq./L. These data contrast markedly with those observed in human subjects who develop ketosis, increased urinary ammonia and decreased uric acid excretion during fasting. Canine resistance to ketosis during starvation could be related to more efficient utilization of mobilized lipids. © 1968.