About 8-10 pounds (lbs.) is a healthy weight for most cats—but up to 60% of household cats are obese in the United States. If your cat is part of the “plump” majority, they could be at risk for developing diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, and other uncomfortable symptoms. If your veterinarian determines your cat is overweight, you can help them get healthy with pet wellness testing and a few changes to their routine. 

How to Help Your Cat Maintain a Healthy Weight

1. Develop a Weight Loss Plan With Your Veterinarian

Your vet can identify a target weight for your cat based on their medical profile and body type. From there, they’ll help you calculate how many calories they should eat per day, and establish a timeline for slowly incorporating dietary changes into your cat’s routine. You should try to get your cat to lose about 1 lb. per month, according to the Pet Obesity Prevention Association. Losing weight faster than this rate can strain your cat’s liver—and create an uproar every time you walk past their food bowl.

2. Control What Your Cat Eats

Cats are notorious when it comes to stealing scraps off the counter—where else would we get a term like “cat burglar?” When you’re cat is on a diet, you need to be extra-conscientious about the foods you give them. Don’t give your cats table food, and limit treats to about 10% of their caloric intake. 

3. Choose a High-Protein Wet Canned Food

Wet canned food is generally healthier than most forms of dry kibble, and it will help ensure that your cat stays hydrated. Choose a formula with a 35%-45% protein content that’s low in carbohydrates and fat. Your veterinarian might make other suggestions for your cat’s diet, depending on the results of their pet wellness testing.

If you’re introducing your cat to a new type of food, ease into it. If your cat eats 1 cup of food a day, start with ¾ of a cup of the old food and ¼ of a cup of the new food. Follow this formula for 2-4 days and then move to half a cup. Repeat this process two more times until your cat has transitioned fully to the new food.

4. Use Toys to Encourage Exercise

Cats are lazy creatures! They sleep for 12-16 hours a day and love to spend the rest of their time plotting (which is low-energy, high gain). To spur your cat into action, play with them for at least 30 minutes a day. Set up climbing towers and scratching posts throughout the household, so they stay active and entertained. Depending on your cat’s personality, you might even be able to leash train them.  

If you’d like to schedule a veterinary consultation for your cat in Campbell County, call Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital at (859) 781-1800 or visit them online. Known for their compassionate and holistic approach, these veterinarians treat cats for everything from routine pet wellness testing to emergency care.