130 The raw Truth: Feeding zoo-Housed Carnivores

Abstract Health and wellness of animals in our care is inexorably linked to their feeding experience (i.e., what how food offered). Usage raw meat-based diets longstanding widespread US zoos aquaria, with a movement towards increased proportions the diet from whole prey. Pet industry has seen steep rise number diversity commercially available products for pets recent decades, whereas suppliers zoo markets remain low. Budgetary constraints equate lower quality ingredients than those premium pet market. Zoo have not been immune supply chain issues during SARS-Cov-2 pandemic, resulting challenges higher cost decreased supply. Advances well-being could be achieved by leveraging findings research include value-added nutrients such as probiotics, natural antioxidants, Omega-3 enriched oils. In cases where animal needs differ nutrition provided commercial (e.g., medical cases, enhancing experience), nutritionists rely on in-house formulations provide additional support. Often these require creative formulation items human-food market other unconventional sources. Examples practical applications individualized aquaria will discussed.