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Dr Pauline Taylor on obesity in cats
Dr Pauline Pets Central veterinarian
Many charts are available to help define “fat cats” but in general, obesity in cats is defined as cats that are more than 30 percent over their ideal weight. You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily when you stroke their body lightly and you should clearly see a waistline when you look at them from above.
What are some of the health issues which come with obesity?
Being overweight generally means your cat will be less active and have a reduced quality of life and may reduce life expectancy as much as two years. Fat cats simply cannot groom themselves like they should while the extra weight plays havoc on aging joints. Other weight-related illnesses exist including diabetes mellitus and urinary tract infections.
What exercises are good for my cat to lose weight?
Establish a regular and fun exercise routine. Exercises involving moving objects for example a feather wand to stimulate the cat’s predatory instincts. Replace food treats with more interactive activities, such as extra play time or holding and petting. Use food treat toys stuffed with normal daily diet, not treats and hide food around your home to make your cat search for the food.
How many calories should an average-sized cat usually have per day?
I never advise on calories/ day in this general situation because I have seen too many pets starved because pet parents were following instructions given to them. The amount of food depends on many things including the brand/type of food and its ingredients and age species/ type of cat and its life cycle. If your cat is overweight, ask your vet for advice on an appropriate feeding regime to ensure they get enough nutrients, without being overfed.
My cat sits by her food bowl all day; how can I encourage her to do something else?
There could be a few reasons for this that are medically induced. Could it be the water she craves rather than the food? If you are dieting her you must be very careful she gets enough daily nutrients from the food you give her. It’s dangerous to try and make a cat lose weight too quickly. Slow and steady weight loss is what is important for cats.
