Good Nutrition, Better Swimmers

Reproduction is among the most metabolically demanding physiological processes in animals, requiring coordinated endocrine signaling, cellular metabolism, and nutrient availability (Wu, 2021; Angrimani et al., 2017;Lindsay et al., 1993). Processes such as gametogenesis, hormone synthesis, conception, gestation, and lactation are closely linked to nutritional status. Adequate energy balance, high-quality protein, appropriate lipidcomposition, sufficient micronutrient intake, and antioxidant capacity are all critical for supporting normal reproductive function (Wu, 2021; Angrimani et al., 2017; Menezo et al., 2017). Even subtle nutritional deficiencies, often insufficient to produce symptoms, can reduce fertility, disrupt hormonal regulation, and compromise gamete quality and reproductive efficiency (Wu, 2021; Angrimani et al., 2017). 

Reproductive tissues are particularly sensitive to nutritional status due to their rapid cellular turnover and reliance on tightly regulated metabolic pathways. In males, the production of sperm is especially susceptible to metabolic disturbances and oxidative stress (Menezo et al., 2017). Spermatozoa have membranes rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining membrane fluidity, motility, and fertilization capacity (Lenzi et al., 2002; Menezo et al., 2017). Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a crucial role in these functions but also increase sensitivity to lipid peroxidation. Because sperm cells have limited antioxidant defenses, dietary lipid composition and antioxidant intake are critical nutritional determinants influencing sperm quality, morphology, motility, and DNA integrity (Lenzi et al., 2002; Menezo et al., 2017). 

Extensive reproductive research indicates that nutrition is a fundamental determinant of male fertility. Multiple studies across species have steadily demonstrated that insufficient energy intake, poor protein quality, and micronutrient imbalances impair spermatogenesis and semen quality, whereas nutritionally adequate diets enhance reproductive efficiency and resilience (Wu, 2021; Angrimani et al., 2017; Lindsay et al., 1993). Oxidative stress is commonly identified as the central mechanism connecting nutritional deficiencies to reproductive dysfunction. Elevated reactive oxygen species levels damage sperm membranes, proteins, and DNA, reducing fertilization potential and increasing the likelihood of early embryonic loss. Menezo et al. (2017) emphasize oxidative stress as a major factor in male infertility and highlight the protective effects of dietary antioxidants, including vitamin E, selenium, zinc, and other trace micronutrients, in maintaining sperm function. 

Research focused on canines further supports the role of dietary lipids as significant modulators of male reproductive health. Díaz et al. (2012) identified a complex and biologically relevant fatty acid profile in canine seminal plasma, characterized by a high concentration of Omega-3 and Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These lipids directly influence sperm membrane integrity, inflammation regulation, and motility. Specifically, the fatty acid composition of seminal plasma mirrors total lipid availability, demonstrating that dietary intake substantially shapes the environment of sperm cells and, consequently, their functional capacity for longevity in the female reproductive tract.   

Studies of sperm maturation provide further evidence of the nutritional sensitivity of reproductive physiology. Angrimani et al. (2017) demonstrate that the fatty acid profiles of epididymal fluid and sperm cells change as they move through the epididymis. This maturation involves the utilization of membrane lipids, including the incorporation of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for the development of motility and efficient fertilization. Disruptions in lipid availability, fatty acid balance, or antioxidant protection during this period can impair sperm maturation and long-term reproductive performance, emphasizing the need for consistent, targeted nutritional support throughout the reproductive cycle.  

Collectively, these canine studies demonstrate that fatty acids actively drive, regulate, and protect sperm motility, maturation, and egg fertilization, rather than merely serving as structural components. Diets deficient in essential fatty acids or with imbalanced Omega-3 to Omega-6 fatty acid ratios may compromise semen quality even in clinically healthy dogs, whereas diets that support optimal lipid composition can enhance reproductive performance. 

Despite substantial supporting evidence, reproductive nutrition remains underemphasized in the companion animal pet food industry. Commercial dog and cat foods are generally formulated to meet maintenance, growth, or broad life-stage requirements, with limited attention to the specific physiological demands of breeding animals. Male breeding animals are often nutritionally overlooked, and fertility challenges are frequently attributed to age, stress, or unknown causes rather than potential dietary factors. 

Although diets formulated to meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient profiles effectively prevent obvious deficiencies, they are not intended to optimize reproductive performance. Nutrients consistently shown to influence fertility, such as long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids, bioavailable trace minerals, antioxidants, and specific amino acids, are seldom addressed in the context of breeding animals unless clinical issues are present. Consequently, suboptimal nutrition may contribute to reduced conception rates, compromised semen quality, and diminished offspring viability. 

As interest in responsible breeding, genetic preservation, and reproductive efficiency grows, the role of nutrition warrants greater attention. Integrating reproductive-focused nutritional strategies into breeding programs through formulation, feeding guidance, or breeder education offers the pet food industry an opportunity to move beyond maintenance nutrition. Recognizing reproduction as a nutritionally sensitive physiological state aligns with the scientific literature and supports improved reproductive outcomes, animal welfare, and long-term health. Taken together, these findings emphasize that male reproductive function is not merely supported by nutrition that meets baseline adequacy but is highly responsive to intentional dietary design that accounts for lipid composition, micronutrient bioavailability, and oxidative balance 

As scientific understanding of reproductive physiology and nutrition continues to advance, the pet food industry has an opportunity to enhance product innovation by developing diets intentionally formulated for breeding animals. Targeted reproductive nutrition represents a logical progression beyond traditional maintenance and growth formulations, working towards dietary strategies that support fertility and performance.  

At BSM Partners, we recognize that reproduction is a uniquely sensitive and nutritionally demanding life stage, requiring careful consideration of energy balance, fatty acid composition, micronutrient bioavailability, and oxidative support. Our multidisciplinary team of PhD nutritionists, DVMs, regulatory experts, and product developers collaborates with pet food companies to translate emerging science into practical, compliant, and evidence-based nutritional strategies. BSM Partners works with companies to move beyond baseline adequacy and optimize animal nutrition at every stage of life, including those with specialized reproductive needs.  

References 

1. Angrimani, D. S. R., C.F Lucio, G.A.L. Veiga, L.C.G. Silva, and C.I. Vannucchi. 2017. Fatty acid content in epididymal fluid and spermatozoa during sperm maturation in dogs. Theriogenology, 95, 56–63. doi: 10.1186/s40104-017-0148-6 
2. Díaz, R., J. Arancibia, A. Peña, and E.A. Martínez. 2012. Identification of fatty acids in canine seminal plasma. Reproduction in Domestic Animals, 47(S6), 223–225. https://doi.org/10.1111/and.12070 
3. Lindsay, D.R, M. B. Martin, and I.H. Williams. 1993. Nutrition and reproduction. Reproduction in Domesticated Animals — World Animal Science Series (Ed.: G.J. King) Chapter 17, pp. 459-491 
4. Lenzi, A., L. Gandini, F. Lombardo, M. Picardo, V. Maresca, E. Panfili, and F. Dondero. 2002. Polyunsaturated fatty acids of germ cell membranes, glutathione, and glutathione-dependent enzyme-PHGPx: From basic to clinic. Contraception, 65(4), 301–304. doi: 10.1016/s0010-7824(02)00276-7 
5. Menezo, Y. J. R., E. Silvestris, B. Dale, and K. Elder. 2017. Oxidative stress and male infertility: From research to clinical practice. Andrology, 5(2), 190–199. doi: 10.1002/rmb2.12353 
6. Wu, G. 2021. Nutrition and Metabolism: Foundations for Animal Growth, Development, Reproduction, and Health. In: Wu, G. (eds) Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition and Metabolism. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 1354. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-85686-1_1 

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About the Author

Dr. Emily Taylor is Manager of BSM Assurance, BSM Partners' Food Safety, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Services team. Dr. Taylor is a nutritionist with over 14 years in the animal industry. She resides in Lafayette, Indiana, with her family, showing dressage horses.