Cat Obesity: Causes, Risks, and Preventive Measures
Wondering how to determine if your feline friend is overweight? Here's a guide to help you out.
Many of us rely on the Body Condition Score (BCS) system developed by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. The BCS ranges from 1 to 3 for underweight, 4 for slightly underweight, 5 for ideal, and 6 to 9 for overweight cats.
Can you easily feel your cat's ribs? If you have to press hard to feel them, your cat's BCS is likely above 5.
Can you see your cat's waistline? If you can't, your cat's BCS is typically above 5.
It's important to remember that we don't just measure a cat's weight; factors like bone structure and fur density can significantly impact the results.
What issues can cats with a BCS above 5 face?
Obesity can increase the risk of various health problems, including diabetes, cystitis, arthritis, nonallergic skin disease, liver lipidosis, and decreased endurance.
Obesity can also lead to conditions such as increased risk of anesthesia, decreased immune function, dystocia in female cats, and respiratory diseases.
How can you help an overweight cat with a BCS above 5 shed some pounds?
Weight loss for cats is not just a test of the cat's willpower; it's also a test of the owner's dedication.
Exercise is key, so spend some quality time playing with your feline companion. Cats don't need to go for walks like dogs, but that doesn't mean they can't enjoy playtime at home. Consistency is crucial; don't let your play sessions be sporadic.
Master the art of feeding and focus on a balanced diet. Reduce the intake of highcalorie foods, and be cautious with treats and supplements that cats can't fully digest, as these can lead to fat accumulation. It might be best to temporarily avoid giving your cat snacks.
Practice portion control. While cats may not eat nonstop like dogs, some can be quite greedy. Switch to feeding your cat four to six small meals a day, with each portion appropriately reduced to aid digestion.
Maintain consistency. As your cat begins to shed weight, keep up with their healthy eating and exercise habits. The goal is to create a healthy lifestyle for your cat, not just to lose weight once and gain it back.
In conclusion, while many cat owners may prefer their pets to be on the plump side, your cat's health should be your top priority. Remember, you may have your chubby cat, but I have my healthy one. It's crucial to help overweight cats shed excess pounds as soon as possible!
