Helping an Overweight Cat Lose Weight Safely

In this guide

Indoor cats in Indian homes are increasingly carrying extra weight, and it is easy to see why. Smaller living spaces, less opportunity to roam, home cooked treats offered out of love, and free feeding all add up. But a chubby cat is not necessarily a healthy or happy one, and extra weight raises the risk of diabetes, joint problems and liver disease.

How to tell if your cat is overweight

Run your hands gently along your cat's ribs. You should be able to feel them without pressing hard, but they should not be visibly sticking out either. Looking down from above, a cat at a healthy weight has a visible waist behind the ribs. A rounded belly with no waistline, or ribs that are hard to feel under a layer of fat, are signs that a weight check with your vet is due.

Start with a vet visit, not a crash diet

Cats should never be put on a sudden, drastic calorie cut. Losing weight too fast can trigger a dangerous liver condition called hepatic lipidosis. A vet can weigh your cat, rule out medical causes such as thyroid issues, and set a safe, gradual target, generally no more than 0.5 to 2 per cent of body weight lost per week, with most vets preferring the slower end of that range for cats. Vets often use a nine point body condition score chart, where five is ideal, to track progress alongside the number on the scale.

Practical steps that work

• Switch from free feeding to two or three measured meals a day
• Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup rather than guessing portions
• Ask your vet about a weight management or high protein, lower calorie diet
• Cut out table scraps and milk, which add unnecessary calories
• Use puzzle feeders or scatter feeding to slow down eating and add activity
• Build in short daily play sessions with a wand toy to get your cat moving

Keeping it sustainable

Weight loss in cats works best when the whole household is on board, since a well meaning family member sneaking treats can undo weeks of progress. Weigh your cat every two to four weeks and keep a simple log. Once the target weight is reached, your vet can help you set a maintenance plan so the kilos do not creep back on.

Article content © Ravi Teja. All rights reserved.