What can a cat's stomach digest? - briefly
A cat's stomach is designed to digest animal proteins and fats efficiently, but it struggles with plant-based materials and complex carbohydrates.
What can a cat's stomach digest? - in detail
A cat's stomach is specifically adapted to digest animal-based proteins and fats, as cats are obligate carnivores. Their digestive system is designed to process meat efficiently, breaking down proteins into amino acids, which are essential for their survival. Cats produce high levels of hydrochloric acid in their stomachs, enabling them to digest raw meat and bones effectively. They also have a shorter digestive tract compared to omnivores, which allows for rapid processing of protein-rich foods. However, cats struggle to digest plant-based materials, such as grains or vegetables, as they lack the necessary enzymes to break down cellulose. Carbohydrates, while occasionally tolerated in small amounts, are not a natural part of their diet and can lead to digestive issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, cats cannot produce certain enzymes required to metabolize lactose, making dairy products difficult to digest for many adult cats. Their stomachs are also not well-equipped to handle highly processed or artificial foods, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. Overall, a cat's stomach is optimized for a diet rich in animal proteins, with limited ability to process other types of food.