(OT06) Delineating the Fecal Microbiome of Healthy Domestic Short-Hair Cats in South Korea

Abstract:

Background: The gut microbiome is essential for metabolism, immune function, and overall balance. In veterinary medicine, it plays a key role in advancing our understanding and management of feline health and disease.

Hypothesis/

Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiota of healthy domestic short-hair cats in South Korea and evaluate the effects of age, body condition score (BCS), sex, and diet on microbial composition.

Animals: Forty healthy domestic short-haired cats were included.

Methods: Fecal samples were analyzed via Quant-IT PicGreen for DNA quantification. Libraries targeting V3–V4 regions were prepared using the Illumina 16S metagenomic protocol and sequenced on the MiSeq™ platform (2×300 bp). Microbial composition was assessed by age, sex, diet, and BCS at phylum, genus, and species levels.

Results: A total of 2,721 bacterial ASV were identified, with Bacillota, Bacteroidota, and Actinomycetota as predominant phyla. Alpha diversity showed no significant age-related differences but tended to increase in cats aged 7–14 years. Phocaeicola abundance correlated with age, and Verrucomicrobiota and Ruminococcus torque were associated with higher BCS. Neutered males had elevated Pseudomonadota, Finegoldia magna, and Sutterella massiliensis levels. Dietary analysis revealed increased Blautia and Lachnoclostridium in cats fed both dry and wet food.

Conclusions and clinical importance: This study offers insights into the core microbiota of domestic short-haired cats in South Korea, highlighting the impact of geographic, physiological, and environmental factors on microbial diversity. These findings underscore the potential of gut microbiome modulation in feline health management, particularly in addressing obesity, aging, and diet-related health issues.