Being overweight puts a cat at risk for developing many serious health issues. Weight gain indicates an increase in body fat and usually results when your cat eats too much and exercises too little.
Other factors that may impact your cat's weight gain include:
- Age - older cats are less active, have less energy, and require fewer calories
- Neutering/Spaying - studies have shown that neutered cats have a lower basic metabolism and, consequently, require fewer calories
- Medical Problems - sometimes weight gain is associated with a medical disorder
Every cat has an ideal weight for her size and breed. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation or use this Weight Check tool to help determine your cat's ideal weight.
What can you do?
- Get with the program. If your cat is already overweight, these tips and tools can help. It's a complete plan of action - with tools and expert information - for optimizing your cat's weight. An active, healthy and happy life is the greatest gift you can give your best friend!
- Talk to your veterinarian. Take your cat for a thorough examination and health check. Ask your vet to recommend an ideal weight for your cat and tips for achieving that goal.
- Get active. Cats gain weight when they consume more calories than they burn. Increase your cat's physical activity.
- Curb treats and snacks. The calories in treats and snacks can really add up. See the impact of those "little extras" with the Treat Translator. Reward your cat with non-edible treats, like a belly rub or a few minutes of playtime.
- Feed a lighter formula. The most effective way of achieving a healthy weight is to combine increased exercise with a change in food. Consider switching to a high quality food made just for cats that are too heavy or are prone to weight gain.
Tasty Tips
Science Diet® Light Adult Feline Dry
cat food is formulated especially for adult cats that require fewer calories:
- 50% less fat and 21% fewer calories than Science Diet® Adult Optimal Care® Original formula cat food
- L-Carnitine converts fat into energy and helps maintain lean muscle mass
- High in natural fiber to satisfy between meals
- Vitamin C + E for healthy immune function
- High quality protein helps maintain strong bones and muscles
- Great taste! Precise blend of high quality ingredients for a taste your cat will love Click here to learn more.
#1 Veterinarian Recommended
Hill's® Science Diet® Brand
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Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.