The nutritional and metabolic impact of γ-linolenic acid (18:3ω6) on cats deprived of animal lipid

Abstract

1. The syndrome induced by depriving cats of animal lipid is partially cured by feeding 18:3omega6. This is associated with an increase in levels of 20:3omega6, but not 20:4omega6, in plasma phospholipids. 2. It is concluded that the cat lacks delta5 desaturase activity and has a dietary requirement for 18:3omega6 and possible 20:4omega6.