What's in a cat's feces? - briefly
Cat feces primarily consist of undigested food, bacteria, and waste products from the digestive process.
What's in a cat's feces? - in detail
Cat feces consist of a complex mixture of undigested food components, digestive byproducts, and waste materials expelled from the body. The primary components include dietary fiber, which remains largely undigested, and proteins that were not fully broken down during digestion. Fats are also present, often in the form of fatty acids that were not absorbed in the intestines. The feces contain bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, which gives them their characteristic brown color. Bacteria from the gut microbiome, both living and dead, are abundant and contribute to the decomposition process and odor. Water makes up a significant portion, though its exact amount depends on the cat’s hydration and digestive health. Mucus, secreted by the intestinal lining to aid in the passage of waste, is another common element. In some cases, parasites, such as worms or their eggs, may be present, particularly in infected cats. Additionally, traces of minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients that were not absorbed by the body can be found. The composition of cat feces can vary based on diet, health, and environmental factors, making it a useful indicator of the animal’s overall well-being.