Putting cats on a diet
The cat has a slight waist when viewed from above, and a level (but not saggy) tummy from the side. You should be able to feel, but not see, his ribs. With an alarming number of fat cats out there -- one scientific study concluded that 53 percent of cats in the U. Most vets classify a cat with more than 20 percent body fat as overweight, but more simply, if the feline profile viewed from above has no waistline or abdominal tuck, the cat is too fat. Tubby tabbies face an array of possible health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, heart and liver issues. He may initially reject the new menu, stalking away from his dish in visible displeasure. S. Obesity is not just something that people struggle with, it is a challenge for cats as well. Determine the ideal caloric intake for your cat. Score 3: Ribs and spine can be felt but not seen. The vet will determine if your cat has health problems in addition to being overweight. Weight loss from a calorie-controlled diet involves following a simple equation: the calories in versus the calories out equals weight loss or gain. And diabetic cats need strictly monitored care and feeding. Your veterinarian will determine the best weight loss formula for your cat. Therefore, if your cat consumes more calories than she burns off in a day, she will gain weight. Viewed from the side, the belly is tucked up. Consider switching to a prescription weight loss formula cat food. Ideal. Helping a cat adapt to his new eating plan requires patience. Drastically changing the amount or type of food your cat eats can invite digestive problems or deplete crucial nutrients. Consider taking the cat to a pet weight-watching clinic. Two to 3 extra pounds (.
Determining If Your Cat Needs to Lose Weight. Animal Planet GO - Watch Full Episodes and Live TV. No wonder we have such an epidemic of obesity. Viewed from above, the cat has a distinct waist. If the cat leaves his food untouched or unfinished, remove it after 30 minutes, and try again at the next scheduled mealtime. They may also suffer illnesses, such as bladder stones or skin conditions that require special eating habits. Pear-shaped tummy from above and sagging down from the side. A cat accustomed to free feeding all day long may be confused or unhappy about structured mealtimes, especially when dinner is a small ration, or a strange food with an unexpected taste or texture. are either overweight or obese -- your not-quite-svelte feline may need to quit the clean plate club. Score 2: Ribs, spine, and pelvis can be easily felt. When your veterinarian sets a target weight for your cat, discuss the various options available. Write an Article Request a New Article Answer a Request More Ideas. The cat has no body fat and looks starved and bony. Regardless of the strategy you and your vet determine is best for your cat, prepare for a long-term commitment because gradual weight loss is healthier for your cat than a sudden change. 9 to 1. Score 1: Ribs, spine, and pelvis stick out and can be seen even at a distance. 36 kilograms) for a cat is equivalent to 40 pounds (18 kilograms) for a human. Score 4: Ribs and spine difficult to locate. Community Dashboard Random Article About Us Categories Recent Changes. Hunger will eventually prevail, prompting the cat to consume his diet meals. An aromatic spoonful of beef or chicken broth poured over the new food will pique his appetite. Expert Reviewed How to Put Your Cat on a Diet. A body condition score consists of a scale from one to five—with five being obese and one being emaciated. Use a kitchen scale when measuring instead of a dry measuring cup in order to be more precise. Several methods are available to help your cat lose weight.
