Question: Feline Weight loss tips

Dr. Schaeberle,

How can I help my cat lose weight?

Thanks,
Missy

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Hi Missy,

Last week we began a discussion on obesity in cats. In general, feline obesity is common, and can result in a shortened life expectancy.

1. Keep up the exercise. Cats can be encouraged to play throughout their lives. Examples of exercise for cats include, playing “Find the Food”, move the food bowl upstairs or downstairs and rotate it so that the cat always has to walk to get to its food bowl. Look for cat “puzzle” toys where you can hide their entire meal inside so that they must play to release kibble to eat! Utilize feather toys, flashlights, laser pens, paper bags or balls, anything that your cat finds interesting to chase. Try to engage your cat for ten minutes twice a day.

2. Cats are true carnivores and need a higher level of protein in their diet. Dry food tends to have more carbohydrates than wet food. So feeding predominately a wet food diet which has more protein, may have an advantage (so long as you control the portion sizes).

3. Watch the calories. A typical 8 pound cat really only needs about 150 to 170 calories per day or one six oz can per day. Feed small meals frequently. Divide the total volume or calories into four to six smaller meals.

4. There are diet foods made for cats. There are now many types of “prescription” diet foods available that surpass the typical “light” formula that you may find in the pet store. At our practice, we primarily use two foods made by Hill’s Science Diet. R/D is low-calorie, high fiber food. M/D is a very high protein diet, but must be fed in fairly small portions. This food can increase your cats metabolism & the high protein levels can help a cat to feel more satisfied, despite the smaller portions.

5. Rechecks and weigh-ins. After you have put your cat on a weight loss program, it is critical that you determine if it is working for your cat. Each cat is different and may require many changes in diet or routine. In general, your cat should be weighed every month until the ideal weight is achieved. Typically your cat should lose about one pound per month. Work closely and actively with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet safely achieves his or her weight loss goals.

Thanks,
Thomas Schaeberle, V.M.D.

Question: Feline Obesity

Dr. Schaeberle,

My cat currently weighs in at 21 lbs, the same size as my small dog! What can I do? I can see that my cat’s weight is starting to effect his overall happiness.

Thanks,
Missy

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Dear Missy,

A few weeks ago I answered a question on obesity in dogs. Today I would like to discuss the growing problem of obesity in cats.

Is a feline obesity problem?

Yes! Obesity is defined as an excess of body weight of 30% or more and is the most common nutritional disease in cats today. It is estimated that about 40% of all adult cats are obese, and there are many more that are simply overweight. Obesity in cats is a known risk factor for type II diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and some forms of cancer. In general, diabetes is probably the most common disease we see in obese cats. Another health concern is a disease called hepatic lipidosis. This is a severe form of liver failure in cats. Hepatic lipidosis typically occurs in cats that are obese and have undergone a brief period of stress and anorexia.

There are many factors that contribute to obesity in cats. A cat’s family genetics can lead to obesity, while other factors are related to diet and environment. It is important for the cat owner and veterinarian to keep these factors in mind when treating feline obesity. Indoor cats are more prone to obesity perhaps because they tend to eat out of boredom. Also indoor cats have less opportunity to stay trim through exercise. An indoors cat’s exercise routine can include play with puzzle toys, feathers, laser pens and hunting games with mice.

Next week I’ll share more tips on cat weight loss and tools to conquer cat obesity.

Thanks,
Thomas Schaeberle, V.M.D.