Excessive levels of fat in the body are the primary cause of obesity. Cats that weigh too much will typically also be overweight or obese in terms of body percentage.
If a cat is 10-20% heavier than it should be, we call it overweight. Those who are 20% or more over their optimal weight are classified as obese.
Risks of obesity in cats
A cat’s life expectancy decreases and its vulnerability to illness increases when it’s overweight. A cat’s lifespan is shortened even being slightly obese. Obese cats (8-12 years old) have a death rate that is 2.8 times higher than lean cats.
So, as an owner of an obese cat, what can you do to reduce the obesity in your cat? Don’t worry, there’s always a solution for every problem. @furrepublik on Twitter shares 7 helpful and easy tips to reduce your cat’s obesity.
7 helpful and easy tips to reduce your cat’s obesity
Here are 7 helpful and easy tips that you can follow in order to reduce your cat’s obesity:
1. Change your cat’s “dry food” such as kibbles to “wet food”
This is because “wet food” has a lower carbohydrate content than “dry food”.
2. Set the same meal times everyday
Take note, and stop filling the food container every time the food container is empty. Free feeding buffet will cause your cat to become obese.
3. Reduce the amount of cat food
Try to reduce the amount of food little by little so that your cat is not surprised by the sudden change in the amount of food.
Don’t forget to consult with the vet first to find out the amount of food your cat should eat.
4. Give your cat enough water to drink
Lack of water can also make cats feel hungry quickly. Extra tips, use the Pet Drinking Fountain to encourage your cat to drink more.
5. Feed your cat using the interactive pet feeder
Using an interactive pet feeder will force your cat to “work” for food. This will indirectly force your cat to exercise.
6. Switch to foods that have lower calories
Try switching your cat’s food to diet food instead. Diet foods usually have a lower caloric value.
7. Often play with your cat
If your cat is still eating a lot, you can increase your cat’s playtime. Try buying some toys that can encourage your cat to move such as an automated laser pointer.
Also, check out this awesome item that can help you to reduce your cat’s obesity: https://shope.ee/1AlUgzIccw
Sources: VCA Hospitals, @furrepublik