Body composition of growing and adult cats as measured by use of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry

Background and Purpose: Total body scans were performed on 89 domestic cats of various ages, using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to determin e body composition, including fat, lean, and bone mineral content. Bone min eral density results from scans also are presented. Methods: This cross sectional study included data for cats from a closed co lony and from privately owned cats, Data were grouped by age and were analy zed by sex and reproductive status to provide information as to the rate of growth of the individual components of body composition. Results: The results indicate that the rate of accretion of bone mineral, f at, and lean tissue differs throughout maturation and by sex. Regressions a re provided to highlight age- and sex-related differences. Conclusions: The results of this study emphasize the benefits of examining the growth of each component of body composition when studying the effects of nutrition, disease processes, or therapeutic interventions.