Using Deuterium Oxide as a Non-Invasive, Non-Lethal Tool for Assessing Body Composition and Water Consumption in MammalsSarah E. Hooper 1, Amanda N. Eshelman 2, Ashley N. Cowan 3, Alicia Roistacher 4, Tyler S. Paneitz 2, Sybill K. Amelon 5
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, 2College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 3Department of Animal Science, University of Missouri, 4School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 5USDA USFS Northern Research Station
This article describes the deuterium oxide dilution technique in two mammals, an insectivore and carnivore, to determine total body water, lean body mass, body fat mass, and water consumption.