Although cats do not require dietary fiber, small amounts in
commercial foods enhance stool quality and promote normal
gastrointestinal (GI) function. The natural foods of cats typically
contain less than 1% dietary fiber although much higher
levels are well tolerated (Vondruska, 1987; Dimski and
Buffington, 1991). Fiber concentrations less than 5% DM are
recommended for normal young adult cats. Because increased
levels of dietary fiber reduce energy density and can induce satiety,
obese-prone cats may benefit from foods that contain from
5 to 15% DM crude fiber (Chapter 27). Fiber supplementation
may also benefit cats that are prone to develop hairballs.