A study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign examined how excess body weight in cats influences nutrient uptake and gut chemistry. The research, published in the Journal of Animal Sciences, sheds light on how overnutrition can alter digestive processes and microbial balance in feline intestines.
In the experiment, eleven neutered adult cats were provided with unlimited dry food over an 18-week period. Additional cats served as comparison groups, with their caloric intake adjusted to prevent weight change. This design allowed researchers to observe the direct effects of sustained overfeeding against a stable-weight baseline.
At the outset, the cats averaged a Body Condition Score (BCS) of 5.41 on a 9-point scale. After 18 weeks of excess feeding, the average rose to 8.27, indicating that the subjects were approximately 30 percent overweight. The study linked this weight gain to measurable changes in gastrointestinal function, including a rise in stool volume and an extension of transit time from food intake to defecation. Fecal acidity also increased, which points to impaired absorption of carbohydrates and fats.
Shifts in the intestinal microbial community accompanied these physiological changes. The bacterial population showed an uptick in Bifidobacterium, which can suppress certain pathogens and participate in immune signaling, but this shift is accompanied by heightened inflammatory activity. Conversely, there was a reduction in collinella, a group involved in breaking down dietary fiber and potentially lowering the risk of inflammatory diseases. These microbial changes suggest that overfeeding not only alters nutrient uptake but also modulates inflammatory processes in the gut.
The weight gain observed in the study raises concerns about metabolic and systemic health risks. The researchers noted that obesity in cats could increase the likelihood of developing conditions linked to chronic inflammation, such as type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and cardiovascular disease. Given the relatively short duration of the study, none of the animals developed long-term illness during the observation period. Following the end of the 18 weeks, the cats were placed on a weight-reduction plan to regain a healthier body condition.
These findings align with broader veterinary nutrition research showing that excess caloric intake can disrupt nutrient absorption efficiency and alter gut microbiota in companion animals. The study emphasizes the importance of monitoring body condition in cats and tailoring feeding strategies to prevent obesity and its downstream health consequences. Regularly adjusting diets to achieve and maintain an appropriate body weight can help maintain gastrointestinal health and reduce the risk of inflammation-related disorders over time.
For further context, researchers reference prior work on how pet health can influence cognitive function in aging humans, including questions about how chronic pet-related stressors and nutritional status might intersect with memory and overall well-being in older adults. These connections underscore the broader value of veterinary research for understanding systemic health in both animals and humans. (Citation: Journal of Animal Sciences, UIUC)