Cat Facts
February 17, 2026
compiled by Nancy Kerr
N is for …
Nails are used for hunting and climbing. They are made of keratin and grow at a slow but continuous rate. While they have no feeling, the “quick,” which is the inner part of the nail (usually seen as a pink center) has nerve endings and blood vessels and cats will feel pain and bleed when damaged or cut.
Nephritis is an inflammation in the kidneys which can occur in various forms. Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation of the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys. Chronic Interstitial Nephritis, which is a common outcome of various renal diseases, can cause significant kidney enlargement and dysfunction. Tubulointerstitial Nephritis is the most prevalent form of chronic kidney disease in cats, which is often linked to other underlying conditions. Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection that can arise from bacterial infections, leading to inflammation and potential nephritis.
Nephrosis, is a type of kidney disease which especially occurs in older cats. It is characterized by the accumulation of protein in the urine, which can lead to various health issues.
Necropsy is a thorough examination by a veterinary pathologist of a cat’s body to determine the cause of death. The procedure includes a gross examination (observing the animal and organs with the naked eye), histopathological examination (examination involves cutting tissue samples into thin sections for microscopic examination), and supportive testing.
Nematodes are common parasites that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated, particularly roundworms (Toxocara cati).
Nocardiosis is a rare but serious bacterial infection in cats caused by the Nocardia bacteria genus, primarily affecting the respiratory system and potentially leading to systemic disease. Nocardiosis is caused by Nocardia bacteria, which are commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter. Cats can become infected through breathing in airborne Nocardia organisms, bacteria entering through cuts or abrasions, and contact with contaminated soil or decaying organic matter, especially in immunocompromised cats.