Is your feline friend getting a bit round? If Fluffy is, well, not just fluffy, she could face some very serious medical problem! Read on as a Crown Point, IN vet discusses obesity in cats.
The Dangers of Obesity
While we can’t deny that chubby cats are very cute, the truth is, they face some very dangerous health issues. Obese cats have elevated risks of developing several medical problems, including heart disease, respiratory issues, liver and kidney trouble, diabetes, bone/joint problems, and skin issues. They also are more likely to have complications after surgery and/or anesthesia. As if that weren’t enough, kitties that are overweight also have higher chances of developing certain cancers. Fluffy will be much healthier—and just as cute—if she stays at or near her ideal weight.
Feeding Fluffy
Does your furball regularly clean her bowl, and then meow to demand more food? Proper nutrition is very important, but you don’t want to overindulge your cat. Follow your vet’s instructions, including recommendations on portion control. Even giving Fluffy a few extra calories a day can cause her to gain a pound a year. That’s a lot for a cat! It’s also important to make sure your furball has plenty of fun toys and entertainment options. Just like people, kitties often snack when they are bored.
Kitty Fitness
If you tell Fluffy to start running laps around the living room, she’ll probably just yawn, lick her paws, and settle down for a nap. You may have to more or less trick your kitty into staying active. How do you do that? Offer your feline pal lots of fun toys, and take time to play with her regularly. We also recommend getting some pieces of pet furniture that will encourage your cat to jump and climb. Cat towers are great for this!
Helping Your Pet Lose Weight
If Fluffy is on the pudgy side, your vet may recommend that she lose weight. Just like people, cats need to slim down slowly in order to drop extra pounds without endangering their health. Never put your furball on a crash diet. This can wreak havoc with your kitty’s metabolism, and could make her very sick! Ask your vet for nutritional advice.
Do you know or suspect that your cat needs to trim down? Contact us, your local Crown Point, IN pet hospital, today. We are here to help!
