Overweight Cat Help

Every day you make choices regarding your cat’s nutrition, a level of exercise and overall well-being. These choices are particularly important when you notice that your cat gained a few extra pounds, or when you notice that your cat enjoys lounging around more than playing. It is estimated in North America, that at least one in three cats and dogs are overweight. Obesity has been linked to heart disease, arthritis, pancreatitis, diabetes, liver disease, exercise and heat intolerance. It is easier to prevent obesity than to manage it.

Is my cat fat?

The body weight of cats are scored from 1 to 9 with a score of 5 being ideal and 9 excessive. With an ideal body weight, you should be able to feel the ribs of your cat on palpating, without having to apply pressure on your hand. An overweight cat will have a round belly when viewed from the side and top.

How can my cat lose weight? Weight loss tips?

Weight loss can be challenging, overweight cats tend to be lazy and inactive. Cats are natural hunters, so offering food in puzzle toys or handing food in different places in the house can increase activity and stimulate hunting. Active cats are more social and less destructive. Proper nutrition is fundamental to ensuring your cat maintains an optimal body condition score.

What is offered in nutritional consultation?

Weight loss can be challenging and a nutritional consultation would allow us to do a physical exam to rule out potential medical problems, then accurately measure your pet’s body score and weight. From there, developing a plan and target would be essential to achieve and maintain an ideal body weight. The team here would provide ongoing encouragement, tips on exercise, toys and other suggestions to achieve your ideal body weight.