Many owners become concerned when they notice their cat putting on weight. Neutered cats need a third less food than before, and will quickly become overweight if you don't keep an eye on them, posing a real health risk.
Why is overweight a problem?
A lot of different diseases are seen more often in cats that are overweight. Sadly these cats also tend to be less comfortable and content. Some of the most common problems that can occur in overweight cats are:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Skin problems
- Urinary tract problems
- Heart problems
- Higher risk of cancer
In cats over 7 years of age, the risk of dying is almost 3 times higher in overweight cats compared to cats with a normal weight.
This is why it is so important to:
- Keep your cat slender
- Help them lose weight if already overweight
Tasty Tips
How do I know if my cat is overweight?
Examine your cat in the following areas:
- Underneath the belly and between the hind legs - is there an 'apron' or roll of fat there?
- Along the ribs - can you feel the ribs if you gently press down as you stroke? If not - there is probably too much fat
- Looking from above, your cat’s chest should be wider and the flank — the area between the ribs and the pelvis — should be indented. If you are standing to the side of the cat, the chest should tuck up as it goes into the abdomen.
Why is my cat overweight?
Most cats are overweight because of over feeding and it's all too easy to understand why. We quickly learn just how happy some special treats or new food makes them feel.
However, if your cat is going to stay in shape they are going to have to learn to live with less food. You will just have to compensate by giving lots of extra attention instead!
Some tips
Your vet is the best person to help you set a healthy eating programme for an overweight cat but these tips should also give good results:
- Cats should have multiple small meals every day. If you are away from home a lot, try a food ball or a mechanical food dispenser
- If begging for food give extra cuddles and attention instead
- Make sure you set time aside every day to play with your cat - treat with some new toys or just use scrunched up paper
- Buy a tall scratching post to encourage your cat to climb
- Consider getting a kitten to keep your cat company. Ask your vet what breed would be best for your cat
- Watch out for cat treats - they can contain a lot of calories
- Ask your vet to recommend a weight management food
Your vet can help you confirm if your cat is overweight and recommend a course of action to ensure they remain happy and healthy.
Related products
STERILISED CAT ADULT CAT FOOD
Precisely balanced nutrition with a unique weight management formula and clinically proven antioxidants to help keep neutered cats in great shape.
Mature Adult 7+ Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Cat Food with Salmon is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports graceful aging in cats, providing a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity levels.
Sterilised Cat Adult Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with a unique weight management formula and clinically proven antioxidants to help keep neutered cats in great shape.
Feline Kitten
Hill's Science Plan Kitten Wet Cat Food Premium Chunks in Sauce with Ocean Fish is a complete pet food for kittens and for pregnant or nursing cats
Related articles
Cats Need Good Nutrition In Order To Stay Healthy
Good nutrition is about the right balance of nutrients. Learn more about health issues when feeding a cat food that has an improper nutritional balance from your friends at Hills Pet Nutrition.
Hill's Cat Foods: Nutritional Balance Just for Indoor Cats
Find the right Hill
Caring for Your Cat Through All of Life's Stages
HillsPet Nutrition provides information on proper nutrition, fitness and special needs in keeping your cat healthy and happy.
Cat Training: How to Train Your Cat the Easy Way
When learning how to train your cat, you'll start with very basic first steps that both reward good behavior and discourage the bad.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.