A surprising amount of felines are either overweight or obese-57.9%!-which can lead to many health problems, such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, and more. For smaller cats, even an extra two pounds of weight can put him or her at risk of these health conditions. Cats that are fit are more likely to live longer, interact with their families more, and are much more playful. Fortunately, if your cat is holding some extra weight, you can take steps to help them lose weight and live a healthy life!
A Changing Diet
Your first step will be to visit your vet clinic in Chicago. They will be able to calculate the calories your cat should be consuming, as well as give you nutritional recommendations. Your cat will likely have to go on a diet, but you will want to get them gradually used to the change rather than have them go on the diet the day they come back from the veterinarian. In addition, you will most likely have to count calories to help assist your cat in losing weight.
Exercising
Unlike dogs, cats are not really up for taking daily walks. Cats, particularly ones that are overweight, do not typically enjoy aerobic exercise as it involves a significant amount of energy. Generally, felines prefer short bursts of exercise to longer bouts of activity. Cat owners have to be smart about getting their pets to exercise. One thing you can do each day is move the food bowl as far away from its normal spot so they have to walk around to find it, and continue to change where it is. Additionally, go to the pet store and purchase different types of toys so you can find what works for your cat, whether it is a laser, feather toys, balls, etc., so that they are engaged in chasing something around.
Visit Metro Vet
If you are worried about your cat being overweight or obese, schedule an appointment with Metro Vet! We are a Cat Friendly Practice, and can offer nutritional counseling as well as tips to help your cat lose weight. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!
Courtesy of: Pet Obesity Prevention
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