What Do You Mean I'm A Fat Cat?

Expert Author Karen McGreevey

Just as with you and me, it is possible for your beloved kitty to gain so much weight that he or she becomes obese.

And, as a result, kitty has to deal with some of the health concerns we humans do, like heart disease, diabetes, and more.

Most commonly, a cat's obese problem can be attributed to nutrition and lack of exercise. (Sound familiar?)

Kitty, though, unlike us, cannot go to the gym to work-out nor can he push himself away from the table when he's hit full! Although Billy, our finicky feline, is pretty good about walking away! Mikey and definitely Jonny, though, (the self-appointed food disposals) not so much!

In view of the kids' lack of ability to pick and choose nutritious foods or to engage in regular exercise or movement, it is up to the human to help them along with the right food and move choices.

For instance, if all of a sudden your kitty turns up roly-poly or tips the scales some odd ounces over his or her usual weight, a quick trip to the vet might be in order to rule out any underlying disease. Blood and urine tests as well other tests deemed necessary by your vet will be ordered. As will perhaps a chest x-ray--or at least a good feel of your kitty's abdomen and other parts.

A thorough review of your cat's eating habits, her (rather, your) food choices, her treats, snacks, and even their frequency of delivery; any table food that (oddly) makes its way to her plate or paws, and her exercise routine also ought to be considered.

Among other things, some cat foods have too much protein; others might have too much grain, and still others have little to no nutrient value for the age of your cat.

If a modification in diet and exercise are necessary, you will find your vet will be extremely accommodating as you create a new eating plan for your kitty. The two of you can also evaluate your cat's play routine, noting especially whether you need to help her up her moves and their frequency.

You will see that a change here and a change there in her nibbles, combined with exercise as simple as encouraging your kitty to play and chase after a string toy you pull or the red dot toy you flash, or regularly lifting a paw at the cursor on your monitor, are all easy enough for you both to pull off and more than sufficient for your kitty to figure out how to redirect his or her mindset from the next meal.