David Thomas

Associate Professor David Thomas is a faculty member in the School of Agriculture and Environment at Massey University, serving as Director of the Centre for Feline Nutrition, Centre for Canine Nutrition, and Major Leader for Animal Science.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Science (Zoology) from University of Dundee (1990)
• Doctor of Philosophy from University of London (1997) in Mammalian Seasonal Physiology

Dr. Thomas's research centers on Companion Animal Nutrition, investigating food supplement functionality, age/seasonal energy requirements, health impacts of high-carbohydrate diets, mineral supplementation sources (inorganic vs organic), and dietary fatty acid optimization. His work integrates Animal Physiology with emphasis on gut and skin systems to advance companion animal health.

As a Doctoral Supervisor, he mentors graduate students. His leadership in the Feline and Canine Nutrition Centres indicates active research funding and industry collaboration in pet nutrition science.

He directs specialized research hubs including the Centre for Feline Nutrition and Centre for Canine Nutrition, driving interdisciplinary studies to improve nutritional standards for companion animals through evidence-based approaches.