While having a plump and fluffy feline may seem charming, it's crucial to understand that even a small amount of extra weight can harm your cat's health over time. In this article, our team of veterinary experts from Meadow Vista will go over some indicators that may suggest your cat is carrying extra pounds.
Is my cat overweight?
It's common to overlook your cat's weight, but maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for their well-being and lifespan. When your cat is overweight, it puts them at risk for severe and possibly deadly health issues. Even a few extra ounces can significantly affect your furry friend's health.
Diseases Linked to Obesity in Cats
Cats that are overweight face an increased risk of developing a number of serious conditions including:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Urinary tract infections
- Joint pain
- Chronic inflammation
- Skin problems
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight
Our expert veterinarians across all locations have shared some simple tips to help you determine if your cat is overweight. It is highly recommended to schedule routine wellness checkups for your feline friend. During the visit, our Meadow Vista veterinarians will assess your cat's weight in person and advise you accordingly for maintaining their optimal health.
Check Out the Overweight Cat Chart:
The illustrations in the overweight cat chart above can help you better understand your cat's weight category and whether your cat may be carrying an extra pound or two. Which illustration best represents the size of your cat?
Difficulties Jumping
Do you notice your cat struggling to run or jump? As natural gymnasts, cats are typically quite agile and can easily perform short jumps. However, if you observe your cat having difficulty jumping onto low surfaces or becoming tired quickly from even mild physical activity, it may be because they are overweight. This excess weight can impact their overall health and mobility, so it's important to take steps to help them achieve a healthy weight.
Look for Your Cat's Waist
If you're concerned that your cat is overweight, try this simple test. Stand above your cat and check for a slight dip just above their hips where their waist should be. Keep in mind that this may be harder to see in long-haired cats. If you can't detect any indentation or if you notice bulging on their sides, it's possible that your cat has excess weight to lose.
Your Cat's Ribs Should Be Easy to Feel
As a cat owner, you can easily check your cat's weight by placing your hand on their rib cage. If you can't feel their ribs, it may suggest that your cat is overweight and needs to lose some weight. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is crucial for their well-being, and regular monitoring can help prevent health issues in the future.How To Help Your Cat Achieve a Healthy Weight
To determine your cat's ideal weight, there are several factors to consider, such as breed, age, and overall size. It's essential to ensure your cat's good health, so if you suspect that your cat is overweight, it's best to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can examine your cat's current weight and provide recommendations on how to achieve a healthy weight.
Reducing portion sizes or cutting back on extra treats may be enough for slightly overweight cats. However, if your cat needs to lose a significant amount of weight, your vet may suggest a prescription diet that is specially formulated for feline weight loss. By taking these steps, you can help your furry friend achieve a healthy weight and prevent health problems associated with obesity.
Gaining Weight for No Apparent Reason
If your cat has suddenly begun to put on weight and you're not sure why it's time to see your vet. Unexplained weight gain can be a symptom of an underlying health issue and should be investigated.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
