Dogs may be man’s best friend, but our feline companions have a closer bond—literally! That’s compelling when you consider the relationship we have with our pets. Canines share roughly 84% of human DNA compared to 90% for cats. It opens up new opportunities to study disease in both species. Interestingly, the latest evidence comes from a fat cat.
Scientists have used mice and rats as laboratory animals for decades. It makes sense, given their close genetic relationship of about 85%. However, cats and people share a common malady, namely, obesity. It carries similar health risks for both, including heart disease and diabetes. That’s saying nothing about the quality of life.
Solutions begin with understanding. That’s where research with obese cats comes into play.
The Role of Gut Bacteria
A small study from Ohio State University considered the effects on the gut bacteria in cats fed a four-phase diet, going from free feeding a regular food to a weight-loss formula to a restricted intake and a return to a maintenance diet. The researchers focused on how the phases affected the animals’ gut microbiome.
Presumably, the cats’ bodies would respond to these dietary changes just as our bodies adapt to a new diet. In either case, the goal is to optimize resources, i.e., caloric intake. The scientists observed similar patterns in the felines as others have seen in humans, concentrating on short-chain fatty acids metabolites.
They noted increases in propionic acid when the cats were fed a calorie-restricted diet. One of the roles of propionic acid is the reduction of fat accumulation. The changes were significant in the gut microbiome and a specific bacterium Prevotella 9 copri, showing adaptation to the new diet and its effects. Scientists have observed similar outcomes in humans.
The value is determining how to control this process to develop therapeutic applications for felines and humans. A fat cat provided insights into what occurs. The next step is putting it to work for weight control.
What the Fat Cat Tells Us
Several significant takeaways stem from this research. Perhaps foremost is the fact that a weight-loss diet triggers positive bodily changes. They work. The fat cat responded to the caloric restriction positively. Anyone who has dieted knows it’s easier to restrict calories than burn them off with exercise. Think of what you must do to negate the cafĂ© latte you drank.
It’s another story with cats, particularly indoor pets. On the one hand, we want to keep them inside to keep them safe from outdoor hazards, like traffic and predators. That’s saying nothing about the toll our feline companions take on wild birds.
On the other hand, our pets have limited space to run, jump, and explore while burning off excess calories to prevent unhealthy weight gain. We must also support their mental stimulation needs with play and interactive toys. Remember that we’re talking about a highly intelligent animal. It’s imperative for their welfare and well-being.
Final Thoughts
Research is all about finding solutions and answers. This study may have had a small sample size, but it validates other information scientists have learned. It also opens up a new pathway to discover more to help people and their pets. All this promise comes from a fat cat and how their body responds to a healthier diet.