Preventing Overweight Conditions in Your Cat
The most important guideline for feeding to maintain health and proper body weight is to evaluate and feed each cat as an individual. This is accomplished by selecting a food based upon your cat’s age, life stage, living environment and activity level. Once a good diet is selected, an amount that supports optimal body condition should be fed.
Keep in mind that preventing obesity in your cat is much easier than treating it. The best way to prevent overweight conditions is to provide enjoyable activities for your cat along with a correct amount of food to maintain normal body weight.
Tips for maintaining your kitten’s optimal weight throughout her life:
- Feed pre-measured amounts of food and closely monitor your kitten’s daily intake and weight. If she begins to gain too much weight, reduce the amount that is offered at each meal, or switch to a less calorically dense food.
- Weigh your kitten regularly and monitor her body condition throughout growth and after she has attained her adult size. Record your cat’s weight in her health record so that you will be able to detect weight changes over time.
- Provide regular exercise in the form of varied and fun activities. Recent studies show that cats most enjoy novel toys that move quickly and erratically. Alternate the toys that you offer to your cat during play to stimulate her interest.
- When you are not available to play with your cat, environmental toys that hang from doorways or soft balls that can be batted around during self-play are entertaining for many cats. Some cats even enjoy videos that are marketed specifically for cats and include bird noises and movements!
Limit Treats: Some cats prefer just their own food while others enjoy receiving treats and table scraps from their owners. If you do give a few “extras” as a treat to your kitten, take care to limit these. Remember, just as in people, those extra calories add up quickly and can contribute to unwanted weight gain!
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