Feline Obesity

Feline Obesity is probably one of, if not, the more common health problem in cats. When is the last time we saw Lions in the wild fat? Never, right ?


 
Having an overweight cat means more potential health risks such as:
-heart problems
-diabetes
-hip/joint issues (not as common)
-shortness of breathe
-greater risk if going under anaesthesia


Cats come in all different shapes and sizes, so its always best to ask your vet if he/she thinks your cat is at optimal weight. You should see an hourglass shape to your feline friend, and not a round body with legs. You want to be able to feel ribs, but not play the piano.

The most important trick to get your cat to lose those extra pounds is to STOP free feeding. Free feeding allows the cat/cats to eat whenever they feel like it, and most owners just continue to fill the bowl up once empty or near empty.

Supplementing with caned food is another fantastic way to get that overweight kitty to shed some pounds. If you can feed twice a day (morning and night) and nothing in between, you will set a feeding routine for your cat and reduce the calories at the same time as adding more moisture content.

Decrease the calorie intake as well. There is prescription diets that you can offer, however most people today like to take the more natural, holistic approach. Some other companies that make a great weight loss formula that works is :

Natural Balance Fat Cat - this food is formulated the same way that vets prescription diets are

Natural Balance grain free diets (ex.green pea/duck) - personally this is what i feed my obese cat and it really does work ! the 10% fat definitely helps

Now Fresh Grain Free Senior - 14% fat

Legacy cat - 12% fat

Toys are a great way to engage your furry friend. Laser pointers, cat nip, and cat nip toys engage the cats natural prey instinct and provide hours of fun.