Overweight Cat Help
Obesity or extra weight is a common issue among cats. Some domesticated cats are naturally sedentary, where the majority of their day is spent laying in the sun in the best seat in the house or snuggling up to their favourite family member. Some may be active but eat ravenously, vocalizing their disapproval any time there is no food in front of them. It can be hard to look our furry friend in the eye and deny them what they want – but it is important to remember that, whether they think so or not, you are acting in their best interest when you stick to a specific feeding routine.
Is my cat fat?
If you’re concerned about your cat’s weight, a veterinary team member can meet with you to determine your cat’s body condition score – that is, evaluate whether your cat would be considered thin, normal, overweight, or obese. During this evaluation, they will perform a few techniques to determine your cat’s score. With slight pressure applied, they should be able to feel the outline of your cat’s rib cage. When looking at your cat from above and feeling down their abdomen to their hind end, they should see or feel the natural waist where the rib cage ends.
How can my cat lose weight?
The important thing to know about cat weight loss is that it is a slow process. Because cats are not a large species, losing a couple of pounds is not as quick or easy a process as it can be for humans. Weight can take years to get off only a little – what’s important to be aware of is that your feline friend is meeting the proper nutritional requirements and that you are sticking to a strict diet protocol. If you notice rapid weight loss, this could be a sign that they are being fed too little or something much more serious is going on. Most dietary foods are formulated to make your pet feel fuller longer, but you can check with your veterinarian or veterinary team if you have any concerns about your cat seeming to be fed too little or too much. If a cat is very vocal, this does not always mean they are hungry. Often begging merely is a conditioned response to receiving food and simply wanting more. Instead of rewarding with food, you can try rewarding your cat with attention, petting or playtime instead.
What is offered in nutritional consultation?
During a nutritional consultation, your cat’s body condition will be evaluated on whether they are emaciated, thin, normal, overweight, or obese. This will be decided by performing a physical exam and feeling for your cat’s waist. With slight pressure applied, they should be able to feel the outline of your cat’s rib cage. When looking at your cat from above and feeling down their abdomen, they should see or feel the natural waist where the rib cage ends. Once this is determined, they will take into consideration your cat’s lifestyle and specific needs and may have dietary recommendations and/or feeding amounts to help guide you to a better weight for a healthy lifestyle for your cat.
