Cat owners who overfeed their pets inadvertently put their beloved furry companions at risk. Overeating not only leads to weight gain but also negatively affects nutrient digestion and alters the gut microbiota in cats, as recently discovered by a new study. As a result, experts advise pet owners to limit feeding and encourage their feline friends to engage in physical activity.

Prevalence of Overweight Cats

It is concerning to note that more than half of all cats in the United States are overweight. Extensive research has been conducted on weight loss in cats, prompting the team from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to delve deeper into the consequences of weight gain.


The Research Study

Senior author of the study, Kelly Swanson, a renowned nutritional scientist, explains that while weight loss in cats has been thoroughly studied, there has been little focus on the detrimental effects of overeating and weight gain. Hence, the research team sought to investigate the metabolic and gastrointestinal changes that occur due to overfeeding.


Study Methodology

To conduct their research, the team selected 11 'lean' cats – all spayed adult females. These cats were fed a commercially available, nutritionally balanced diet in measured quantities for two weeks. Baseline measurements were recorded during this period. Subsequently, the cats were allowed unrestricted access to the same food for 18 weeks, during which they could eat as much and as often as they desired.


Findings

Throughout the study, Swanson and his colleagues collected fecal and blood samples, as well as unguided data on physical activity through monitors attached to the cats' collars. Contrary to expectations, weight gain did not consistently lead to decreased physical activity. However, individual cats, their environment, and interactions with their owners may influence this variation.


Effects of Overeating on Cats

Once provided with unlimited food, the cats wasted no time increasing their calorie intake, consequently gaining weight. As anticipated, the cats experienced an increase in body fat levels and a decline in nutrient digestion as they consumed more food and their mass grew.


Digestive Efficiency and Fecal pH

Swanson explains that when the body receives less food, it becomes more efficient at extracting nutrients. Conversely, an increase in food consumption results in faster passage through the digestive system, leading to a decreased extraction of nutrients. The researchers observed this decreased extraction through the cats' increasingly acidic stool. In humans, low fecal pH indicates poor absorption of carbohydrates and fat, a correlation evident in the study.

Utilize food puzzles to control your cat's eating habits and promote physical activity. (Image: kicia_papuga/Canva Pro)

Impact on Gut Microbiota

The study revealed notable differences in the types of gut microbes present before and after 18 weeks of free feeding. Additionally, gastrointestinal transit time, which refers to the time it takes for food to be excreted, decreased by approximately 25 percent as the cats gained weight. Swanson suggests that this alteration in transit time may contribute to changes in the fecal microbiota.


Complex Factors beyond Weight

Interestingly, some microbiome changes observed in the cats contradicted those typically seen in obese individuals, indicating a more complex interplay of factors beyond weight alone. Understanding the metabolic and gastrointestinal changes associated with obesity in cats could pave the way for prevention and treatment strategies. Further research should explore the relationship between gut microbiome changes and overall health.


Weight Loss and Intervention

In a separate study, Swanson and his colleagues demonstrated that limiting cats' food intake can safely promote weight and fat loss. After the conclusion of the weight gain study, the 11 cats were put on restricted diets, allowing them to gradually return to their baseline levels.


Promoting Healthier Lives

To ensure the well-being of our feline companions, the authors recommend pet owners provide the right interventions during mealtime. This includes separating food into smaller portions placed in different locations, encouraging cats to retrieve their food, and employing food puzzles. Despite their independent nature, cats can benefit from our efforts to enhance their physical and mental activity, leading to healthier and happier lives.


Conclusion

Overfeeding cats poses risks to their health, impacting nutrient digestion and gut microbiota. Through responsible feeding practices, pet owners can help prevent weight gain and maintain their cats' well-being. By implementing strategies that encourage physical and mental engagement, we can ensure our feline friends enjoy improved overall health and lead fulfilling lives.