Feline obesity is a common issue, especially for indoor cats. However it’s a fairly simple problem to correct as long as you are willing to work at it.
Feline health can be as simple or as complex as we make it. In many cases, the solution to a problem our cat faces is common sense; feline obesity is one such case.
Many of us can relate to having a feline friend with a few extra pounds around the belly. Let’s face it: we have trouble saying “no” to these little critters and before we know it one of them is in real need of a weight loss program.
Feline obesity is a serious detractor from optimal feline health. In fact a cat is vulnerable to the same issues you and I might face if we gained several pounds and never lost it.
Heart issues and diabetes are just two examples of complications caused by feline obesity. And consider this: 2 –3 extra pounds is quite serious for an animal with a total body weight of 12 to 14 pounds.
But there’s great news:
Feline obesity is fairly simple to correct. In most cases, it just takes a little work.
Reduce Caloric Intake
The first obvious step is to reduce the caloric intake for your feline friend. Cut out all (yes all!) table food right away and stick to it. Consider eliminating any “kitty milk” and ask your vet about a good weight control food that contains less fat and fewer calories. A small cutback will often yield results in a reasonable timeframe.
If your cats had 24-hour access to his or her food bowl, consider shifting to a twice-daily feeding schedule. This will take some discipline at first as your baby will attempt to dissuade you, but stick with it!
Once your cat’s weight is back under control, it’s your job to keep it that way. So you should take care to find a good feeding regimen that can be sustained over time. Just like with humans, temporary diet programs will not work long-term to correct feline obesity.
Kitty Exercise Program
Odds are, you already play with your feline friend from time to time. But if he or she needs to lose a few pounds you must get regimented.
Make a point to engage your cat in ten minutes of very active playtime each day. You may drag a string, roll a ball, or do anything else that keeps him or her in a state of motion throughout the session.
It’s a matter of discipline in the beginning, but after a few days your cat will most likely begin to look forward to the structured playtime. Before you know it your feline friend will be reminding you when it’s time to exercise!
These minor adjustments are a small price to pay to potentially extend the life of your cat for many years. Certainly he or she deserves this much in exchange for the unconditional love and companionship you currently enjoy.
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