Did you know that over half of our feline pals are obese? Studies indicate that nearly 60 percent of cats are overweight. There certainly are a lot of chubby kitties out there! Fluffy may look if she’s a bit pudgy, but she’ll be much healthier staying at or near her ideal weight. A Lake Murray vet discusses feline obesity in this article.
Risks
Cats that are overweight or obese are at risk of developing some very serious health problems. Some of these include heart disease, diabetes, bone/joint issues, kidney problems, reproductive issues, respiratory problems, and skin trouble. Overall, those extra pounds could take extra years off your kitty’s life. They’ll also make it harder for her to run, jump, play, and groom herself … all of which are quite important to her health and well-being.
Diet
Your kitty’s weight depends mostly on her diet and her exercise regime … or lack thereof. Portion control is often the hidden danger here. Just giving your furry buddy ten calories too much each day can cause her to pack on extra weight. Ask your vet for specific advice on this, including serving sizes and suitable treats.
Keeping Kitty Fit
Your feline pal may have been a meowing, furry ball of energy as a kitten, but she’ll slow down —way down—as she ages. (This probably isn’t exactly a shock, as senior kitties do spend a rather ridiculous amount of time sleeping.) Offering your cat toys and giving her furniture to climb and explore will help keep her moving. Playtime is also helpful. Take a few minutes a day to hold a wand toy or laser pointer for Fluffy to chase.
Meowpulation
Our feline overlords are very, very good at wrapping us around their adorable little paws. Some of our patients have their humans pretty much trained to feed them on demand. Steel yourself against that cute meow!
Other
While diet and exercise are the two biggest factors that determine your kitty’s weight, genetics also plays a role. Some cats are just more inclined to getting round than others are. Fluffy may also gain weight as she ages. Medical problems can also cause pets to pack on extra pounds. If your furry pal suddenly seems to be getting chubby and you aren’t sure why, contact your vet to schedule an exam.
Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Do you suspect that your pet is overweight? Contact us, your Lake Murray animal clinic!
