Cat Weight Management
Even just a little extra weight can make a major difference in your cat’s health, general wellbeing and overall quality of life. All cats have an ideal weight for their size and breed. We might think a chunky cat is quite cute….. they make look cute but it is detrimental for their health.
Excess weight can lead to less play time and depression. It can even significantly shorten your cat’s life expectancy as compared to a healthy weight pet. Overweight cats can have a greatly increased risk of developing serious health conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus, Osteoarthritis, Urinary Stones, Heart Disease, breathing difficulty and even bladder cancer.
If your cat is overweight, you’re not alone. It can be hard to tell if your pet is gaining weight because it happens gradually over time. The important thing is that you take steps to help your cat achieve a healthy weight. If you are concerned on the weight of your cat or their health contact the clinic for a consultation.
Cat weight gain is the result of an increase in body fat. This is usually caused by eating too much, especially when combined with lack of exercise. But there can be other contributing factors too. Age, breed, gender, medical problems, overfeeding, overeating, feeding habits and lack of exercise all play a part in your cat and their weight.
Signs your cat may be overweight include:
· Loss of an obvious waist
· Collar needs loosening
· Difficulty in walking
· Slow movement
· Shortness of breath
· Bad temper
· Sleeping more than usual
Your cat’s diet is perhaps the single-most important factor in helping maintain an ideal weight. Contact the clinic for food recommendation for weight loss, including what food, feeding guide and regular weigh-ins. Your cat should have an ongoing weight-management plan based on good nutrition, exercise and regular check-ups.