Obesity in Cats Causes, and Solutions
What is Cat Obesity?
Feline obesity is a term used to describe the state in cats whereby they have overgrown body fat mass affecting their health. Obesity categorically begins at 20% above the predicted weight of a specific animal; in this case, cats. Some of the symptoms include; They cannot easily touch their ribs, they do not have a waistline, and have a potbelly..
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| Obesity in Cats Causes, and Solutions |
Why is Cat Obesity a Concern?
It is important not to mistake obesity for physical size but rather accept it as a genuine health problem. Obesity in cats predisposes the cat to develop diabetes, heart diseases, arthritis, and shortened lifespan. Moreover, obesity can cause discomfort with physical activity, which is why people may exhibit increased sedentary behavior – lack of physical activity, decreased social activity.
Causes of Obesity in Cats
Overeating and Lack of Portion Control
It is important not to mistake obesity for physical size but rather accept it as a genuine health problem. Obesity in cats predisposes the cat to develop diabetes, heart diseases, arthritis, and shortened lifespan. Moreover, obesity can cause discomfort with physical activity, which is why people may exhibit increased sedentary behavior – lack of physical activity, decreased social activity.
Lack of Physical Activity
Overweight is also a common problem because indoor cats have a very limited ability to exercise – if at all. Unlike outdoor cats they do not chase or climb which are natural activities that continuously make the cats active.
High-Calorie Diets
There are indeed some commercial cat foods that are packed with calories and giving your cat too much of such foods will certainly make your cat obese. Staple and moist diets must be selected depending on an individual cat’s particular nutritional requirements.
Age and Metabolism
Just like people, cats being a one type of animal also have their metabolism slow down and as a result, they need less food to keep their weight fixed at this stage. Perhaps their feeding habits will also not change, instead they will slowly gain weight.
Medical Conditions
Cushing disease, hypothyroidism and other hormonal problems are also a reason for weight gain. Also, there are some drugs that can cause side effects which lead to obesity also.
Neutering and Weight Gain
Although neutering is not known to cause obesity, it makes a cat less active and therefore, to avoid becoming overweight, a change of feeding regime or exercise is necessary.
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| Obesity in Cats Causes, and Solutions |
Solutions to Manage and Prevent Obesity in Cats
Regular Weight Monitoring
The unremitting comparison for your cat’s weight will let you identify any shifts in the quantity without delay. Measure using a pet scale or with the help of your veterinarian in case you want an accurate measurement.
Feeding a Balanced Diet
One cannot overemphasize the importance of feeding your cat good quality cat foods that have been custom made to suit your kitty. The emphasis should be on foods with very few calories but lots of nutrients. There is also portioning concern, this is because when measuring foods you do not have to worry about your cat over indulging.
Encouraging Physical Activity
Laser pointers for cats, feather wands, and puzzle feeder toys are requiring your cat to work for its meal and makes exercising enjoyable. Also, organizing them into plays sessions keeps them busy hence providing them with enough physical activities.
Consulting Your Veterinarian
If your cat is already obese then seek the services of your veterinarian to develop a diet plan for your pet. They are able to determine if there are any medical conditions that would require special dietary measures or if a patient needs any dietary supplements at all.
Avoiding Free-Feeding Habits
Leaving food throughout the day is a trigger for over eating. To avoid this, one should only eat at designated times meals that are less in calories.
Using Feeding Tools and Puzzles
Slow feeders and puzzle toys imply portion control but also invite your cat to exercise his/her brain at the same time during meals.
How to Help Your Cat Maintain a Healthy Weight
Establishing Healthy Routines
Consistency is key. Stick to a feeding and exercise schedule that suits your cat’s needs.
Monitoring Treat Intake
It should be important to note that, treats should only take about 10% of your cats total daily calorie intake. Select low calorie treats as much as possible.
Educating the Family on Pet Care
Make sure all household members know that controlling the amount of food that goes into your cat, and its activities, is important.
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Conclusion
Obesity in cats is a condition that can be controlled to some extents with cat owners deploying the necessary effort. That’s why knowing the causes and following the treatment options can actually help you prevent numerous diseases, increase your cat’s lifespan, and make them happier.
FAQs
How do I know if my cat is obese?
Look for such symptoms as a protruding belly and an inability to touch her ribs. But for a more specific advice, you may have to consult your vet.Can obesity shorten my cat’s lifespan?
Indeed, obesity can cause different ailments that may cut a cat’s lifespan short.What are the best foods for weight management in cats?
Search for low calorie diets with enhanced protein content cat foods that are in weight control category.How often should I play with my cat to keep them active?
Ideally, interactive play should be hourly at least but if that is not possible then for sure it should be around 20-30minutes every day.
Can medical conditions make weight loss harder for cats?
Of course, chronic diseases such as hypothyroidism can stall weight loss efforts. Such problems can be addressed by a vet.
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