Is your kitty a furry little chonker? If so, she is in good (and very cute) company. More than 50% of pet cats are overweight or obese. While we all know that overweight cats are cute, those additional pounds pose some major health hazards to your adorable companion. This essay, written by a local Ashland WI veterinarian, examines feline obesity.

How Long do Obese Cats Live?

Unfortunately, fat cats do not live as long as those who stay at a normal weight. Fluffy’s life expectancy could be as low as five to ten years, as opposed to the 10 to 15-year norm she would otherwise expect. Putting the numbers in a different perspective… Fat cats aged 8 to 12 had a 2.8 times greater mortality rate than their leaner counterparts.

How Can You Slim Down A Fat Cat?

You can’t expect Fluffy to follow a weight loss regimen on her own. The good thing is that you ultimately control her diet. Most cats are unable to get themselves a snack or open a can of food. We say most because some cats have found out how to get into cabinets. Some are not hesitant about snatching their human’s meals.

Of course, your pet can and probably will meow and plead until you give in. You may need to brace yourself against that gorgeous furry face.

What Should I Feed My Obese Cat?

Diet has a big impact on your cat’s general weight and health. Making sure your kitty is getting good, nutritious food is important for many reasons!

Here are a few recommendations for feeding Fluffy.

• Get Good Food: Opt for high-quality cuisine. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on cat food, but it should be nutritious and healthful. 
• Start reading labels. There are a few basic guidelines to follow. Things will become much easier if you know what you’re looking for. Labels for pet food must adhere to the same standards as those for humans. The essential requirement is that the elements be mentioned in proportion order. That indicates the first item listed has the highest proportion of all the elements. Look for products that list meat, fish, or poultry first on the packaging. Check out the other ingredients as well. Avoid products that include a lot of fillers, such as maize or wheat. These foods are not only high in carbs, but they are also generally unhealthy for cats.
• Check Portions: Portion control is also a significant consideration. Even giving Fluffy 10 too much calories every day can cause her to gain one pound per year. A hundred extra calories per day would equal one pound per month. That is a lot for a ball of fur!
• Choose Age-appropriate food. Your feline companion’s nutritonal requirements will also fluctuate with time. A kitten’s nutritional needs differ from those of a senior cat. Consult your veterinarian about when and how to make these transitions.

What Are The Health Risks Associated With Feline Obesity?

Obesity in cats presents many of the same hazards as it does in humans. As you might assume, heart illness is among the most common and alarming. However, it isn’t the only issue.

Here are a few others:

• Diabetes
• Osteoarthritis
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Cancer
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular Illness
• Arthritis
• Systemic Inflammation
• Anesthesia Complications
• Increased Urination
• Liver Illness
• Respiratory Disease
• Skin Issues
• Kidney Dysfunction
• Shorter Lifespan
• Skin And Coat Problems
• Metabolic Disorder
• Lower Quality Of Life

Contact your veterinarian for further information.

How Can I Keep My Cat Active?

You can’t force Fluffy to run up and down the stairs or sprint on order, but there are several things you can do to keep her moving. Offering toys and playtime is the best approach here.

Daily play sessions are an excellent way to get your pet friend active. Use interactive devices like wands or laser pointers. You can also gift your cute pet a smart toy that reacts to her motions. These products work well because they awaken your pet’s inner tiger and unleash her hunting instincts.

Purchasing cat furniture that facilitates and encourages activity may also be beneficial. Having a cat tower to climb or a kitty wheel to run on won’t hurt!

Of course, if your pet is bold and curious, she may enjoy leashed walks. Simply put safety first. Never leave your cat unsupervised with her harness or collar, and don’t force her to go for walks if she doesn’t appear to like them.

Make sure to ask your veterinarian for more information.

What Causes Feline Obesity?

Fluffy’s weight is typically determined by her caloric intake and exercise habits, much like it is for humans. In most circumstances, an overweight cat is just consuming more calories than it is burning off. Given our feline buddies’ napping habits, this is perhaps not surprising. Unfortunately for Fluffy, capturing Zs does not burn nearly as many calories as catching mice.

Diet and exercise are not the only considerations. Your pet’s age will also be taken into consideration. Older cats have different nutritional needs than younger cats, and they frequently require fewer calories. This is something you should discuss with your veterinarian frequently, especially as your feline companion becomes older.

Medical issues might also impact your pet’s weight. Some may cause weight reduction, while others cause weight gain. If you are unsure why your pet is gaining or losing weight, schedule an appointment at our clinic and have your Ashland WI veterinarian examine her.

Book An Appointment At Our Ashland WI Animal Hospital

Do you own a chubby cat? Do you have any questions concerning your pet’s nutrition or care needs? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your local Ashland WI animal clinic, we are here to assist!