Cats have an unusual characteristic of their kidneys: why many diseases appear

Scientists have discovered a possible cause of frequent kidney problems in domestic cats. The study, published in the journal Frontiers of Veterinary Science, points to an unusual feature of their body that distinguishes them from dogs and other mammals.

A team of scientists from the University of Nottingham conducted a chemical analysis of cat tissue and found that specific fats – modified triglycerides – accumulate in their kidneys. These fats, which are normally used to store energy, have a different structure in cats and behave differently than in other animals.

These special lipids have unusual chemical bonds and complex structures that are rarely found in other species. The scientists did not find similar changes in dogs, and in wild Scottish cats such deviations are observed much less often.

Dr. Rebecca Brocik noted that the accumulation of these fatty substances could be a sign of prolonged cellular stress, which can damage kidney tissue, over time impairing their function. Scientists hope that further research will help understand the mechanisms by which these fats accumulate in cats, which in turn could lead to the development of specialized supplements or modified diets to reduce their levels in the animals’ bodies.

The discovery could also help develop new approaches to treating chronic kidney disease, one of the most common problems in older cats.