The importance of choline in feline nutrition
Choline, formerly known as vitamin B4, is an essential nutrient in a cat’s diet and is closely involved in fat metabolism in the liver. Cats synthesise it in the liver, but research has shown that the rate of synthesis may sometimes be insufficient to meet their needs. Choline is a component of phosphatidylcholine, also known as lecithin, and acetylcholine, both of which are necessary for the proper functioning of cell membranes and nerves. Most cat foods currently available on the market are enriched with choline chloride, so it is thought that the final amount of choline may be excessive. However, there is no evidence that this is harmful to cats’ health. Choline also requires attention in a home-prepared diet.
The role of choline in a cat’s body
Both exogenous choline, supplied through food, and endogenous choline, produced through biosynthesis in the body, are used primarily as components of phosphatidylcholine in the liver. Phosphatidylcholine, in turn, forms the lipid component of cell membranes. Through the action of specific enzymes called phospholipases, choline can be released from phosphatidylcholine. By contributing to fat transport, choline helps protect the liver against fatty infiltration. It is also used to produce acetylcholine, a very important neurotransmitter, which explains its role in the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Choline deficiency
The de novo biosynthesis of choline requires vitamin B12 and folic acid. Low levels of these nutrients in the body, combined with insufficient dietary choline intake, may therefore lead to a deficiency. The effects of choline deficiency in cats require further research, but the condition has been associated with fatty infiltration of the liver. At an advanced stage, this disorder often causes jaundice, visible as yellowing of the mucous membranes and skin. The animal becomes lethargic and loses weight due to reduced appetite. Gastrointestinal signs such as diarrhoea or vomiting may also occur. Choline deficiency can also affect the nervous system because choline is a component of the substance that forms the myelin sheaths of nerve cells. Problems with motor coordination and muscle function may develop. Cognitive disorders are observed particularly in senior cats.
What can you feed to ensure enough choline in the diet?
Chicken egg yolks are a very good, readily absorbed source of natural choline. Offal also contains large amounts, particularly liver, but also hearts and kidneys. Choline is present in muscle meat, including poultry, pork and beef. It can also be found in certain fish, mainly salmon, cod and tuna, as well as in krill.
Choline supplementation in a BARF diet
It is best to consult a veterinarian before introducing any supplement. If an animal is ill, adding supplements that provide a source of choline to the diet is often recommended. These may include B-complex vitamins or krill meal. Supplementation is also worth considering for cats with obesity or a tendency to become overweight.