Weight Matters To Your Cat's Health
Your cat's weight may not cross your mind as a potential health problem, but weight is an important element of your cat's overall health. Much like people, when your cat is carrying extra weight their risk of developing some serious and potentially life-threatening conditions increases dramatically. As little as a few excess ounces can have a significant effect on your cat's vitality and overall health.
Increased Health Risks Faced by Overweight Cats
If your feline friend is carrying extra weight they face an increased risk of developing one or more of the serious conditions listed below:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Urinary tract infections
- Joint pain
- Chronic inflammation
- Skin problems
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight
Struggling to Jump
- A cat's body is perfectly designed for jumping. If it takes multiple tries for your cat to jump up onto their favorite piece of furniture, or if your cat gives up altogether, their weight could be the issue.
Check for Your Cat's Waistline
- While your cat is standing, look down at them from directly above. Try to spot a slight indent just above your cat's hips where their waist should be (this can be a bit tricky with long-haired cats). If you can't see their waist or if their sides are bulging it means that your kitty is probably carrying excess weight.
Feel for Your Cat's Ribs
- If your feline friend is at their correct weight you should be able to feel their ribs by running your hand along their chest. If you can't feel your cat's ribs, your cat may be overweight.
Use Our Overweight Cat Chart
- Look over the overweight cat chart below to get a better understanding of your cat's weight category, and whether your cat may be carrying an extra pound or two.
How to Get Your Kitty's Weight Back On-track
Your kitty's breed, age, and lifestyle all make a significant difference to their nutritional needs.
If you think that your cat may be overweight make an appointment to see your vet. Your veterinarian will assess your cat's current weight then let you know what your kitty's optimal weight is and how to help your cat reach their weight loss goals.
For cats that are just a little overweight, sticking to their regular food but reducing the size of each meal could get your pet's weight back within healthy parameters.
If your cat needs to lose a significant amount of weight, it may be best to switch your kitty over to a specialized food that is formulated to help with feline weight loss.
Unexplained Weight Gain
Has your cat has suddenly begun to put on weight without cause? Then it's time to see your vet! Unexplained weight gain can be a symptom of an underlying health issue.
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.
Is your cat overweight? Contact our Cordova vets to book an examination for your cat. Our vets can rule out underlying causes and offer you effective solutions for helping your feline friend achieve a healthier weight.
Looking for a vet in Cordova and greater Memphis area?
We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.
Related Articles View All
Cats & Colds: Can They Get Them & What To Do?
Many people don't know that our cats can get sick, but they can catch colds just like we can! A cat with a cold will display similar symptoms as humans do such as sneezing and a runny nose. Here, our Cordova vets talk about the causes of cat colds and when to seek veterinary care.
Do cats get depressed?
Cats are known for their independent yet playful characters. So, if your cat seems sad, you're bound to be concerned. Today, we discuss signs of depression in cats, potential causes of cat depression, and what can be done to help your feline friend banish the blues.
My cat sleeps constantly, should I be worried?
No doubt about it, cats love to sleep. But how much is too much? Today, you will discover reasons why cats sleep so much and learn when to be concerned about your cat's sleeping habits.
What To Do If Your Cat or Dog Having Difficulty Breathing
Does your cat or dog's panting mean that they're having breathing difficulties? Today, our Cordova vets look at breathing difficulties in dogs and cats, and how they are treated.