Kitty Obesity

Have you noticed your cat getting a bit heavier lately? Is Fluffy, well, not just fluffy? Obesity is quite common among cats. In fact, over half of our furry pals are overweight or obese. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet discusses feline obesity.

Many people think their pets look cute with a bit of extra padding. It’s also not uncommon for people to want to pamper their pets. However, it’s better to spoil Fluffy with toys and cuddles than by overfeeding her. Just as with people, obesity can cause some very serious health problems in cats. Those extra pounds increase your feline pal’s chances of developing many conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, skin trouble, respiratory issues, bone/joint problems, and even certain cancers.

Fluffy’s diet will play a large role in her overall weight. It’s very easy to accidentally overfeed a cat. Even giving your pet just 10 calories too many each day can make her gain a pound a year. It’s also worth noting that kitties often snack out of boredom. Offer your feline buddy lots of entertainment options, so she doesn’t get bored. It’s also worth mentioning that some cats are also very, very good at convincing their humans to give them extra snacks. Treats are great, but don’t go overboard here. You aren’t doing your pet any favors by allowing her to become obese. Ask your vet for specific advice, including serving sizes and suitable treats.

We probably don’t have to tell you that cats are, for some reason, very tired. Fluffy can spend up to 20 hours a day napping, though the average is ‘only’ about 14-16. This can make it very easy for her to pack on extra pounds. Of course, you can’t really tell your cat to do a lap around the kitchen, so you’ll need to encourage her to stay active. Offer your furball lot of fun toys, and take time to play with her daily. Even just a few minutes of running and jumping will be beneficial. Another thing that will help is giving your kitty some pet furniture that encourages her to jump and climb.

Please reach out to us at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, anytime. We’re dedicated to keep your cat healthy and purring!