Wednesday, 04 March 2026
Researchers from the 糖心原创 have uncovered a surprising biological quirk in domestic cats that may help explain why they are so prone to chronic kidney disease.
Unlike dogs and most other mammals, cats appear to accumulate unusual fats inside the cells of their kidneys, sometimes from a very young age.
This new study, published in , and led by Professor David Gardner and Dr Rebecca Brociek from the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science at the University, shows they are anything but ordinary.
Using advanced chemical analyses, the team discovered that cats accumulate a rare group of modified triglycerides (the most common type of fat in the body, essential for storing excess energy from food), some with unusual chemical bonds or branched structures, that are very rarely observed in other mammals.
Many of these fats have special ether鈥憀inkages that behave differently from typical dietary fats. Dogs did not show this pattern at all, and the feral Scottish Wildcats showed it only occasionally.
Dr Brociek said: “Why these types of unusual fats accumulate in domestic cat kidneys, even from an early age, may offer an important clue as to why domestic cats are particularly prone to chronic kidney disease, one of the most common and serious illnesses affecting older cats.”
The researchers propose that this distinctive lipid buildup inside kidney cells could be an early sign of long鈥憈erm stress within the kidney, potentially contributing to tissue damage over time.
We are hopeful that soon we will understand why these unusual fats accumulate in domestic cats - we just have to collect the evidence to find the proof. If true, we believe we could develop a supplement or modified diet to help prevent these unusual lipid structures from accumulating, ultimately benefitting the long-term health of our companion animals.鈥�
The discovery opens a new area of investigation into feline biology, suggesting that cats’ unique metabolism may predispose them to kidney problems. It could eventually lead to better diagnostic tools, improved diets, and new treatments for protecting cats’ kidney health.
The full study can be found .
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More information is available from Professor David Gardner in the School of Veterinary Medicine & Science at david.gardner@nottingham.ac.uk
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
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