Preventing Overweight Conditions |
Back |
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. Here are some 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!
|
|
Did You Know? |
| Obesity Is the Number One Nutritional Disorder Reported in Cats! |
| It is estimated that more than 40% of
pet cats in the United States are currently overweight or obese. Obesity develops when your cat consistently consumes more calories than he needs.
Obesity is serious - In cats, being overweight is a risk factor for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, liver disease, and arthritis.
An overweight cat is also less flexible and athletic.
|
|
|