A cat’s weight is one of the most important parts of its health. When it's just right, cats are happy, healthy, and free from weight-related issues. But when they're overweight, they can have a hard time even with simple tasks. Some can even be prone to weight-related issues.
Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do as a pet parent. Overweight and obese cats have an increased risk of diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems.
These are just some of the many conditions that can reduce quality of life and shorten a cat’s lifespan. If you’ve noticed your cat is starting to carry extra weight, help them manage it now.
The sooner you help them shed those extra pounds, the easier it will be to prevent any issues down the road. Plus, we’re here to show you the ropes.
The Benefits of a Healthy Cat Weight
But first, let’s talk about why you should help your cat lose weight.
Improved Mobility and Flexibility
A healthy weight for cats can help them easily do physical activities. This means that they can easily play around the house without any difficulty. When they weigh appropriately for their breed, they can move more comfortably.
This means less stress on their joints and more playtime they can comfortably enjoy.
Better Energy Levels
Cats with a normal weight become more active and playful. Since the heavy weight won't literally be weighing them down, they'll be more likely to engage in activities that keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
Maintaining a healthy weight significantly lowers the chances of developing dangerous conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, keeping your cat healthier for longer.
Longer Lifespan
Cats that stay within their ideal weight range have a higher chance of living longer lives. Since they’re not battling weight-related conditions, their bodies experience less strain over the years.
Better Quality of Life
If your cat feels good with its body and physical activity, it'll show in its mood and behavior. Cats with a healthy weight will be happier, more adventurous, and more engaged with their surroundings.
Healthy Weight of Cats
Most adult cats weigh around 3.6 to 4.5 kg. However, this can vary based on the type of breed. Large breeds such as Maine Coons may weigh more, while smaller breeds like Munchkin cats may weigh less. Here’s a general guide on how to quickly check cat weight:
Category | Signs to Look For |
|---|---|
Underweight | Ribs, spine, and hip bones are very easy to feel and see. Little to no body fat, and a highly tucked-in waistline. |
Healthy Weight | Ribs, spine, and hip bones can be felt but cannot be seen. Belly is tucked, but not excessively. Slight waist behind the ribs when viewed from above. |
Overweight | Ribs, spine, and hip bones are difficult to feel and can’t be seen. The belly may sag slightly. From above, there is no visible waistline. |
Obese | Ribs, spine, and hip bones cannot be felt or seen. The abdomen may look rounded and hang down. There is no waistline. |
10 Tips to Get Cats to Lose Weight
Tip 1: Measure Food Portions Carefully
When helping your cat lose weight, first know how much they eat. Overeating is one of the most common reasons cats gain weight, and it’s easy to give them more food than they need accidentally.
Cats require a specific number of calories based on weight, age, and activity level. Even a small overestimation can lead to gradual weight gain over time. Typically, a cat would need 40 to 45 calories per kg of body weight.
We’ll need to start calculating your cat’s RER, also known as resting energy requirement. This is the minimum amount of calories cats need to maintain basic bodily functions. To start, use this formula: RER = (body weight in kg)^0.75 x 70.
For example, if your cat’s body weight is 4 kg, then it’ll be (4)^0.75 x 70. This will equal an RER of 197.99 per day. From here, we’ll proceed based on your cat’s needs. Here’s a quick guide:
Type of Cat | Multiplier |
|---|---|
Neutered adult cat | 1.4 x RER |
Intact adult cat | 1.2 x RER |
Active cat | 1.5 x RER |
Inactive cat | 1 x RER |
Weight loss for a cat | 0.7 x RER |
Weight gain for a cat | 1.7 x RER |
Growing kittens | 2 x RER |
For example, a 4 kg neutered cat will need about 277.19 calories per day. From here, you should check the cat food as it will list the amount of calories per cup.
If you’re unsure, you can also ask our vets about your cat’s needs. Once we have given you a guide, you can use measuring cups or kitchen scales at home to help measure your cat’s food portions.
Tip 2: Transition to Weight-Management Cat Food
What your cat eats is a big part of what determines its weight. If their diet is full of calories, then even smaller portions won't help a ton. That’s where weight-management cat food comes in.
These specialized formulas are designed to promote fullness, nutrition, and digestion. They will have higher protein levels, lower fat and calories, and more fiber.
If you want to change your cat's food, make sure to let us know. We can recommend the best ones for weight management and other purposes. Cat food brands such as Hill’s Science Diet and Royal Canin have incredible weight loss options.
Tip 3: Follow a Feeding Schedule
A consistent feeding schedule helps cats feel at ease when it comes to weight management. It prevents overfeeding, maintains a comfortable routine, and helps with monitoring your cat’s weight.
Typically, cats need to eat 2 to 3 times a day. Decide on when your cat should eat. It can be any time you are able to. Just make sure that these times are consistent and evenly spaced. For example, you can feed your cat every 12 hours or once for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Tip 4: Use Puzzle Feeders or Food-Dispensing Toys
Feeding time doesn’t have to be boring. It can be an opportunity for exercise and mental stimulation. Puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys help slow down your cat’s eating while encouraging movement, which helps with weight loss.
Puzzle feeders work because they encourage physical activity. Because of this, the toys help slow down a cat’s pace when it comes to eating.
Tip 5: Engage in Daily Playtime
Getting your cat to lose weight can be done in a fun way. Daily play sessions are a fantastic way to get your cat moving, burn calories, and strengthen your bond. By playing, your cat will be able to burn calories, promote mental stimulation, and help them feel happy.
To do so, you can also use toys such as laser pointers, chasing toys, and simple obstacle courses.
Tip 6: Provide Vertical Spaces for Climbing
Cats love to climb, and it’s a natural behavior that keeps them active and engaged. Adding vertical spaces in your home satisfies this instinct and encourages more movement. This helps cats lose weight and burn calories, while also helping stimulate their minds.
What’s great about these spaces is that you’ll have lots of choices for your home. Cat trees, wall shelves, and window perches are just some of the many options you have for any play areas your cat needs.
Tip 7: Limit Treats
Cat treats are a common culprit when it comes to a cat’s weight gain. While giving your cat a tasty snack is a great way to show love, too many treats can quickly add unnecessary calories to their diet. Even simple fruits such as strawberries and blueberries can have too much sugar.
Treats need to be limited because they are calorie-dense, especially commercial ones. Additionally, they can also ruin a cat’s diet if given too much or if the wrong type is given.
Your cat needs to have a diet made mostly of animal protein. So if you're giving treats, only give tiny amounts.
Tip 8: Weigh Your Cat Regularly
Keep track of your cat's weight loss journey. By doing so, you can make adjustments to your cat's weight loss program and food. Weight loss should be slow and steady, about 1 to 2% of body weight per week.
To do so, you can use a pet scale. If you don’t have this, you can also use a bathroom scale. Weigh them every 2 to 4 weeks.
Tip 9: Use Wet Food
Wet food also helps manage cat weight. It’s one of the most essential things about keeping a normal cat weight. Switching to wet food or including some in your cat’s diet can help promote fullness without the calories. Plus, it’s good for overall hydration.
Wet food contains fewer calories because of the inclusion of water in its composition. This allows your cat to eat a good portion without overeating. Additionally, because of the water included in the wet food, your cat will have better urinary tract health.
If your cat is used to its dry food, then slowly introduce wet food. Mix in small amounts in the current diet to avoid any digestive distress.
Tip 10: Work with a Veterinarian
Helping your cat lose weight is a team effort, and our vets will be your go-to partners throughout the process. At the clinic, we provide specialized advice and recommendations tailored to help your cats lose weight. If you can’t visit the clinic, our vets can also visit your cat at home for a checkup.
Our vets can calculate the right calorie intake, recommend specific foods, and suggest activity levels tailored to your cat’s needs. We’ll check your cat’s condition at every visit. What’s great about this is you’re receiving the right advice you need to help your cats lose weight.
Since weight loss can also be linked to several diseases, that field is also something we can look out for. By making sure your cat loses weight safely and not because of some disease, we can help your cat stay healthy.
“Keep your cats healthy and they’ll stay happy.”
- Dr. Soheyl Simaei
Final Thoughts
Helping your cat lose weight is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health and happiness. A healthy cat weight not only reduces the risk of serious illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease but also allows your cat to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life.
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