Apparent Digestibility of the Diet Provided to Crab‐Eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous) Kept Under Human Care [Diet Provided to Crab‐Eating Fox]

Abstract

The crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) is an omnivorous species with a frugivorous/insectivorous feeding habit and low feeding specificity, consuming a wide range of prey and vegetation. Studies that include its diet are based on the analysis of stomach and fecal content of free-living animals, without focusing on nutrient intake. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate nutrient intake and its use in a diet formulation provided to crab-eating foxes kept under human care. Eight healthy crab-eating foxes received a diet formulated with fruits (papaya, banana, apple and mango), commercial dog food, boiled egg, chicken neck, bovine heart, and a multivitamin supplement. The animals received the same diet for at least 1 year. Food intake was monitored, and a total fecal collection was carried out. The macronutrient composition of diet and feces was analyzed and macronutrient intake and digestibility were evaluated. The average of apparent digestibility coefficients was 84.0% for dry matter, 31.75% for ash, 95.63% for ether extract, 81.88% for crude protein, 58.13% for crude fiber, 85.38% for nitrogen free extract (NFE), and 85.25% for gross energy (GE). The results showed that the individuals are taking advantage of sufficient amounts of almost all nutrients. Evaluating the nutritional content and utilization of diets in animals under human care is essential, as it allows for adjustments to ensure the maintenance of an ideal body condition score.