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The
average adult cat weighs in at 9 to 11 pounds, but this
may vary with breed and body type. Excess flesh can cause
health problems, including arthritis and liver and heart
disease. Overweight felines face increased risk during surgery
and may have a hard time grooming certain areas of their
bodies, which can lead to skin problems. And really fat
cats, such as those who weigh 20 pounds when they should
be 10, can get a form of diabetes.
Tips to Fight Cat Obesity
What's
the best way to tip the scales in your cat's favor? Gradually
decrease her food intake while increasing her activity
level. First, you'll need to determine the exact amount
of food she's eating. Could other household members be
unknowingly doubling or tripling her treats? If you find
that your feline companion is overweight, consider trying
one of the many reduced-calorie foods available from pet
supply stores. But since some cats are super-finicky,
it may be easier to simply reduce the portion size of
her regular food. Experts recommend a gradual 10
to 25 percent reduction of kitty's daily intake; any greater
reduction can place a strain on her liver.
Depending
on your cat's individual preferences, it may help to divide
her daily allowance into multiple portions. Even if you're
not home during the day, you can easily offer your cat
four separate meals. And it may be hard for the both of
you, but cut out the high-fat treats. Opt for high-fiber,
low-cal munchies such as cooked green beans, raw carrots
or peas -- some cats love them! Assess her progress after
two weeks; you may need to further reduce her intake or
up it to maintenance level.
Feline Obesity Can Be Decreased with Exercise
You'll
also need to make time for some interactive play. Overweight
cats tend to be less active, and exercise increases muscle
mass and burns calories. If your cat is extremely overweight,
it's best to consult your veterinarian before starting
any weight loss regimen. Your doctor can determine if
the condition is due to a medical problem or may recommend
a specially formulated low-fat, high-fiber diet available
by prescription only.
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