Obesity In Cats
Fat cats, round cats and tubby cats. We think they look so adorable and they must be as happy as, well... the cat that got the cream! However, obesity is a common problem among today’s household cats. There are many potential adverse effects of obesity, and weight loss can be achieved in most cases.
How do I know if my cat is obese?
Most Domestic Shorthair cats (DSH), which are mixed breed cats, should be below 5kg depending on body frame. Ideal weights for purebred cats vary depending on the breed size. Typically, the adult bodyweight at 1 to 2 years of age is the ideal bodyweight, and this information should be contained in your cat’s veterinary records. Otherwise, ask your veterinarian about your cat’s present weight. The folds of flesh between your cat’s backlegs are often a good indicator as to whether excess weight is being carried.
Why is my cat overweight?
Most cases of obesity are due to excessive calorie intake. Some cats put on weight as they age due to decreased activity, and indoor cats are more prone to obesity than those that have access to outside. However, just as in humans, basic metabolic rate differs between individuals, so that some cats will always have a propensity to become overweight. Genetics also plays a part.
There are also some hormonal disorders that can result in obesity, such as imbalances of thyroid hormone, cortisone and insulin. Before embarking on a weight loss program for your cat, he should have a physical examination by your veterinarian, and possibly blood tests to rule out medical reasons for obesity.
What are the potential adverse effects of obesity?
Apart from lack of mobility and therefore quality of life, obesity predisposes your cat to diabetes. Increased bodyweight aggravates joint and spine problems; weight loss in a senior arthritic cat often results in significant improvements in mobility. Obesity can also cause fatty infiltration of the liver (hepatic lipidosis) and fat over the ribcage and in the abdomen reduces the ability of the chest to expand and therefore reduces the capacity of the lungs.
How can I achieve weight loss in my cat?
It is best to feed a weight reduction diet that is available from veterinarians. The amount to feed is based on your cat’s ideal bodyweight, and the aim should be for 2 to 4% weight loss per week. Feed in several small meals during the day, and do not offer treats. Since weight reduction diets are low in fat and high in fibre, palatability may be a problem. If your cat refuses the diet, gradually change to the new food over a month by substituting increasing proportions over time. Most of the diets are available in a tinned or dry form. Warming tinned food helps to increase its palatability.
Weigh your cat weekly to ensure that some weight loss is occurring. If not, the amount fed will need to be reduced further, or blood tests may be indicated at this point to look for any underlying disorders. However, the most common reason for a diet to be unsuccessful is that owners are feeding more than the prescribed amount, or that the cat is accessing food elsewhere. It may be useful to have a tag on your cat’s collar stating that he is on a medical diet, to try to discourage other well-meaning people from feeding him. You may want to try boarding your cat for 2 weeks to establish whether any of these other factors are present.
How do I maintain my cat's weight loss?
Once your cat has reached its ideal bodyweight, it can be maintained by feeding a good quality balanced low calorie diet, such as a premium 'light' food. Ensure you weigh your cat regularly to see if any other adjustments to calorie intake are required.
- Last updated 16 November 2012
