What nutrients are not absorbed by cats? - briefly
Cats cannot efficiently absorb carbohydrates like lactose due to a lack of the enzyme lactase, and they also struggle to process certain plant-based nutrients like beta-carotene, which their bodies cannot convert to vitamin A effectively.
What nutrients are not absorbed by cats? - in detail
Cats, as obligate carnivores, have a unique digestive system that is highly specialized for processing animal-based proteins and fats. However, there are certain nutrients that cats either cannot absorb efficiently or do not require in their diet due to their evolutionary adaptations. One such nutrient is dietary fiber. While fiber is essential for many omnivorous and herbivorous animals to aid digestion and maintain gut health, cats lack the necessary enzymes and gut microbiota to break down and utilize plant-based fibers effectively. As a result, fiber passes through their digestive system largely undigested, providing minimal nutritional value. Another nutrient that cats struggle to process is carbohydrates. Unlike humans and some other animals, cats have a limited ability to digest complex carbohydrates due to low levels of amylase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down starches. While small amounts of carbohydrates can be tolerated, excessive intake often leads to inefficient absorption and can contribute to digestive issues or weight gain. Additionally, cats cannot synthesize certain vitamins and minerals from plant sources, such as beta-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A. Unlike humans, cats must obtain preformed vitamin A directly from animal tissues, as they lack the enzymatic pathway to convert beta-carotene into a usable form. Similarly, cats have a limited ability to absorb and utilize plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Instead, they require preformed omega-3s like EPA and DHA, which are found in animal fats and fish oils. Lastly, cats have a reduced capacity to metabolize certain amino acids derived from plant proteins, such as taurine. Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, and its deficiency can lead to severe health issues, including heart disease and vision problems. Since taurine is primarily found in animal tissues, cats must consume meat to meet their dietary needs. These nutritional limitations highlight the importance of providing cats with a diet rich in animal-based proteins and fats while minimizing plant-based ingredients that offer little to no nutritional benefit.