Effect of Water Intake on Nitrogen Metabolism in Dogs

Nitrogen balance studies in dogs were carried out to determine the effect of variable water intake on nitrogen metabolism. The results showed that increased water intake resulted in lower retention of nitrogen at low or high levels of nitrogen intake. In most cases urinary urea decreased when water intake increased. Apparent nitrogen absorption was not influenced by water intake. The urinary sulfur did not change with changes in water intake. Total serum protein and albumin concentration, albumin-to-globulin ratio and urea levels did not change significantly when higher volumes of water were given. It is concluded that in nitrogen balance work, water intake volume should remain as constant as possible to reduce the variability in nitrogen retention. Also, with a constant water intake, when protein intake is decreased, it is possible to learn when the nitrogen balance of the experimental subject becomes stable by measuring urine volume.