Feline obesity is one of the most common, preventable diseases in cats. In fact, around 60% of house cats become overweight because they have unlimited access to food, exercise infrequently, and rarely visit a veterinarian. Unfortunately, heavier cats are more likely to have health problems down the road. The first step to prevent these health scares is to recognize when your cat needs a dietary change.

How Obesity Harms Cats

Much like humans, cats who are overweight carry a higher chance of developing certain diseases and conditions. Minor but avoidable risks include frequent infections, skin conditions, and constipation. More severe conditions that may include osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart or liver disease, hypertension, bladder stones, and a shortened life expectancy for your furry friend. 

How to Tell Your Cat Is Overweight

Cats come in all shapes and sizes, which can make it hard to judge whether your cat is just fluffy or gaining too much weight. Luckily, veterinarians are trained to assess various cat breeds and their specific health conditions. Still, there are a few common signs that your cat may need to go on a diet. If they weigh more than 10 pounds, you can’t feel their ribs when pressing gently against their fur, or they have a pouch of fat swinging between their hind legs, it may be time to make a change. 

How to Combat Feline Weight Gain

The first step is to recognize there is a problem with your cat’s health. Ask your veterinarian for a current health assessment so they can provide an ideal body weight for your cat, a weight loss plan, and resources to help you. Once you know what your cat’s weight target is, adjust their feedings with proper portion control, consistent feeding times, and limited snacking. Ideally, you should provide smaller meals 4 to 6 times a day rather than leaving out food all day long. Encourage exercise by playing with them frequently or providing them with areas to play and climb, like a cat tower. 

To help your feline friend stay healthy and begin a weight loss regimen, talk to the experts at Countryside Veterinary Service. Their veterinarians, serving Northeastern Ohio and Northwestern Pennsylvania, have years of experience in preventative and emergency care, from vaccinations to animal surgery. Visit their website to learn more about their pet clinic services. Call any of their five convenient locations below for the best in veterinary care!

Countryside Veterinary Service – Garrettsville
Countryside Veterinary Service – Kinsman
Countryside Veterinary Service – Middlefield
Countryside Veterinary Service – Champion
Countryside Veterinary Service – Jamestown