Obesity is one of the most common health problems in pet cats. Experts estimate that more than half of pet cats in the US are overweight or obese, and the numbers are similar in the UK. Extra weight isn’t just a cosmetic issue: it can shorten your cat’s life and make it more likely to develop serious illnesses.
Why Is Being Overweight Dangerous for Cats?
Overweight cats are at higher risk of:
- diabetes;
- arthritis and joint pain;
- urinary problems, such as cystitis;
- liver disease;
- skin problems and matted fur, because they can’t groom properly;
- breathing problems and heat intolerance;
- complications during anesthesia and surgery;
- a shorter life.
Is My Cat Overweight?
Ideal weight depends on your cat’s breed, size and build: a healthy Siamese might weigh 8 lb (3.5 kg), while a healthy Maine Coon might weigh 15 lb (7 kg) or more. That’s why vets assess your cat’s body shape, not just the number on the scale. Here’s how to check:
- Feel the ribs. You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard, but not see them.
- Look from above. A cat at a healthy weight has a visible waist behind the ribs.
- Look from the side. The belly should be tucked up slightly. A small, loose flap of skin on the lower belly (the “primordial pouch”) is normal in many cats, but a round, firm belly is a sign of fat.
Your vet can score your cat’s body condition and tell you its ideal weight. Weighing your cat regularly at home (for example, weighing yourself holding your cat, then subtracting your own weight) helps you track changes.
Why Do Cats Gain Weight?
- too much food, especially free-feeding dry food;
- too many treats and table scraps;
- lack of exercise, especially in indoor cats;
- spaying or neutering, which lowers a cat’s energy needs by about a quarter or more;
- age: middle-aged cats are most prone to weight gain;
- boredom and stress, which can lead to overeating.
Sometimes, weight gain or a swollen belly can be caused by medical problems, so have your vet check your cat before starting a diet.
How to Help Your Cat Lose Weight Safely
Never put a cat on a crash diet or stop feeding it. Cats that eat too little, or lose weight too fast, can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a life-threatening condition. Always plan weight loss with your vet.
- Talk to your vet first. Your vet will check for health problems, set a target weight and calculate how much your cat should eat. Safe weight loss for cats is slow: usually about 0.5–2% of body weight per week.
- Measure food carefully with a kitchen scale or measuring cup, instead of filling the bowl by eye.
- Consider a weight-loss diet. Your vet may recommend a prescription weight-management food, which helps cats feel full while eating fewer calories.
- Feed meals instead of free-feeding, and include wet food, which has fewer calories per bite.
- Limit treats to no more than about 10% of daily calories, and count them as part of your cat’s food. Stop all table scraps.
- Make your cat work for its food with puzzle feeders and food balls.
- Play every day. A few short, active play sessions with a wand toy can make a big difference. Cat trees and climbing shelves encourage movement too.
- In multi-cat homes, feed cats separately so one cat doesn’t eat another’s food.
- Weigh your cat regularly, and go back to your vet for check-ins so the plan can be adjusted.
Read more about chubby cats and how to keep yours healthy.
