Cat Care

by Kymberlie Adams

Let’s face it, despite rumors to the contrary, most cats are not finicky eaters. In fact, they tend to love food to a fault, often breaking into a chorus of meows each time they hear the kibble bag open. Unfortunately, recent studies show that feline obesity is one of the greatest health concerns facing our beloved furry ones. Carrying extra weight puts a burden on bones and joints, leading to torn ligaments and making arthritis problems worse. Obese bodies are also less able to fight off infections, and are at an increased risk for heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Determine the Cause

Like their chubby human counterparts, cats usually become overweight from eating more food than they need, and not getting enough exercise. A quick way to see if your feline is overweight is to feel for ribs with the flat of your hand. If you cannot feel the backbone or ribs without pressing, there is too much fat. Occasionally, metabolic disorders can make a cat overweight. So just to play it safe, all overweight cats should have a physical exam and blood and urine tests to rule out any underlying health issues. It is also important to consult with your veterinarian before putting your cat on a food restricted diet—sudden changes can be very harmful to your kitty.

Get That Kitty Active
Most cats spend a great deal of time home alone doing little more than eating and sleeping. Playing with your cat is the best way to provide them with much needed exercise that will help them to burn more calories, reduces their appetite, changes their body composition and increases their resting metabolic rate. Cats often play by chasing, swatting and pouncing—toys like laser pointers and cat dancers encourage this type of activity, while providing quality time between you and your cat. You may also consider adopting a friendly and playful cat from a local shelter so your solitary kitty has a playmate to interact with.

Break Bad Habits
While exercise is very important, the number one reason for cats being too pudgy around the tummy is overfeeding. Most of us keep very busy schedules and tend to overload the cat dish. Talk to your vet about the proper portion size for your cat and feed her accordingly. It’s also wise to stay away from less expensive store brand foods full of highly caloric fillers. They may taste great, but they are not the healthiest choice. Premium cat foods are bit more expensive, but cats will actually eat less of it as they get the nutrition they need from smaller portions.

While it’s easy to concede to that adorable little face, cutting back on treats can also help shed some weight. When your cat is begging for treats, try substituting cuddles or playtime as rewards instead of fatty food treats.

Feline obesity is easier to prevent than to cure, but putting your cat on a diet is well worth it in terms of the quality of life and health your cat will enjoy.

What feeding issues do you have with your cat? Share your comments and questions on the Healthy Pet Exchange.