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Wild animals rarely suffer from obesity. However, as any veterinarian will attest, many house pets accumulate too much weight, which can increase their risk of disease and shorten their lives. Most cats will eat whatever you put in front of them, so it can be difficult to know how much you should be feeding them. You should know the signs of an overweight cat so you can put them on a diet.

Signs Your Cat Is Overweight

Healthy cats do not accumulate fat along their rib cage. You should be able to feel your pet's ribs when rubbing their upper belly. The ribs should be as obvious as your finger bones are when touching the back of your hand. If you must press firmly before you can locate their ribs or rib gaps, your cat is carrying too much fat.

When viewed from above, a healthy cat should have an obvious waist and a bit of rib visibility. Their body shape should be sleek and should follow their skeletal structure. If the abdomen is enlarged, the cat is obese and at risk of developing health issues.

Health Risks of Feline Obesity

veterinarianIf your cat is fat enough that you can grab a handful of body tissue beneath the fur, this excess flab could be dangerous. For instance, overweight kitties are subject to problems like feline diabetes. Symptoms of this include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and lethargy. Fat cats may also suffer from urinary tract infections, hepatic lipidosis, and high blood pressure. 

How to Lower Your Cat’s Weight

Carefully monitor your cat’s meal intake and limit access to treats. Choose a lean cat food and make sure your kitty has plenty of water to stay hydrated. Water will also help keep their stomach full, causing them to eat less. 

You can also encourage your cat to stay active with cat toys and special feeders that make your cat work for their food. Weigh your pet frequently to monitor their progress and discuss other weight loss options with a veterinarian.

 

If you need a veterinarian to help your cat lose weight, contact Pet Care Specialists in Columbus, NE. They have served Platte County since 1996 and have a solid reputation for compassionate veterinary care. They also specialize in pet grooming, boarding, and dental care. Visit their website to learn more about the practice or call (402) 564-3565 to make an appointment. 

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