Is a Cat's Big Stomach Fat or Illness?

1. Begin by gently feeling your cat's belly. If it feels soft and squishy without any moisture, it might indicate excess fat or what's known as the "primitive pouch." This pouch is a genetic trait retained from early wildcat breeds, also referred to as an abdominal flap, which is surplus skin that "hangs" over the cat's abdomen. The primitive pouch serves multiple purposes: it aids in food storage, facilitates easier stretching movements, and can even protect the abdominal organs.

2. If the belly feels firm but not overly hard, with a substantial feel to it, and your cat has been socializing with other cats, a bloated belly could be a sign of pregnancy. However, if the belly feels unusual, it might be due to pathological causes leading to abdominal swelling. For instance, if it feels like it's filled with water, it could be ascites; if it's hard and lumpy, it might suggest a tumor or cancer.

3. There are several common reasons for a cat's belly to appear large: overeating can lead to food accumulating in the stomach, causing the belly to feel distended. Gastrointestinal bloating, often caused by poor diet, can also lead to an enlarged belly as gas builds up. If there are a lot of parasites, like worms, in the cat's intestines, it can cause abdominal swelling, so it's important for owners to regularly deworm their pets.

4. Uncommon reasons for a cat's belly to be particularly large include conditions like feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), which can cause abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation after 16 weeks of illness, with the ascites lasting up to two months. Any organ damage or failure can lead to discomfort or ascites in cats, resulting in abdominal swelling. Tumors or cancer in the abdominal area can also cause the organs to enlarge, making the cat's belly feel swollen and tense or loose.

When a cat's eating habits are poor, with frequent overindulgence, it can easily lead to digestive issues and obesity, making the belly appear larger. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to ensure their cats eat regularly and in moderation. Should you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult with an online veterinary professional.