Obesity in Cats

Fat Cat 1

 

OK, so how many of us have losing weight at the top of our list of New Year’s resolutions?  We know that being overweight is not good for us and the same holds true for our cats.

Domestic cats depend on humans for their meals.  Unless you have a mouser cat, your regular house cat will require extra protein and fewer carbohydrates found in most dry foods.  Monitoring your cat’s food consumption is important since their gain or loss of weight is a direct result from the owner’s understanding of proper cat care.  Aside from the lack of good nutrition, obese cats also lack enough play time.

Cats suffering from obesity have a shorter life-span since they develop health disorders like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease.

If you are questioning your kitty’s weight, please visit your veterinarian to find the right dietary plan for your pet or make an appointment for a weight check and nutritional consultation with our hospital staff at 559.237.1125.  Your cat may require a new kind of food, feeding schedule, or feeding technique to begin loosing the extra pounds that adversely affect its health.

Your cat won’t become of healthy weight unless it has your help.  You’re its caretaker and can enable your cat’s unhealthy growth. Cats need to run, chase, pounce and prowl.  Providing extra toys, cat perches, walks, and other creative exercise routines can help control its weight and decrease the development of unwanted behavior and diseases.

If you would like to provide your cat with a playing companion, the CCSPCA has many wonderful adoptable cats that can help your overweight cat obtain the exercise it may be lacking.  The more socialization and play time your cat receives, the healthier it will be.  Plus, you’re saving two lives…yours and a shelter cat.