Cat Weight Issues: Dangers, Signs, and Remedies

THE MAGNITUDE OF CAT OBESITY AND HOW TO HELP YOUR FELINE FRIEND LOSE WEIGHT

One out of every four domestic cats in the United States is obese, with another one in five cats classified as overweight [1]. Aiding an overweight cat in losing weight can be challenging, especially when faced with their appealingly pleading gazes. However, understanding why weight loss is crucial and learning effective strategies can help negotiate this challenge.

What constitutes cat obesity?

A cat is considered obese if they weigh 20% or more than their ideal weight. For instance, a cat that should weigh 10 pounds would weigh 12 pounds or more if obese. While an extra 2 pounds might not seem significant, it represents a considerable added burden for your cat [1].

The ideal body weight of each cat varies based on their body size, with considerable differences even within specific breeds. To diagnose obesity, veterinarians and pet owners can utilize a body condition scale. This scale evaluates a cat's silhouette or body shape and manual examination for ribs and areas of fat [1].

A healthy cat should exhibit an hourglass figure, with a natural waist narrowing behind the rib cage when viewed from the side or above. The ribs should be easy to feel but not easily visible. Fat should be evenly distributed across the body, with no prominent areas of excess fat, such as a hanging belly [1].

Factors contributing to cat obesity

Obesity in cats is primarily caused by consuming more calories than the cat requires for energy. Several factors can augment this risk, such as differences in a cat's metabolism and lifestyle. While certain cat breeds have not definitively been linked to obesity, middle-aged cats (5-10 years old) and male cats are more susceptible [1].

Neutering or spaying can decrease the production of sex hormones, potentially leading to a slower metabolism, increased food intake, and decreased activity. Free or frequent feeding, primarily eating dry cat food, and a lack of indoor enrichment also contribute to the risk of obesity [1].

Indoor cats without outdoor access are more likely to be obese, but not all indoor cats become overweight. Enrichment that encourages regular exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy weight [1]. Metabolic diseases like acromegaly or insulin resistance can also result in weight gain. Finally, some cat parents may perceive that obese cats live happier lives and support their weight gain with extra food or treats [1].

Health risks associated with obesity in cats

Obesity poses several health risks for cats, including:

Heart disease: Obese cats face an increased risk of heart disease, with weight loss improving heart function [2].
Respiratory disease: Obesity reduces lung capacity and predisposes cats to tracheal collapse, which affects breathing [2].
Insulin resistance: The excess fat in obese cats leads to increased inflammatory proteins, causing cells to become resistant to insulin and its effects. This can, over time, result in high blood sugar and eventually diabetes mellitus [2].
Musculoskeletal conditions: Inflammation caused by excess fat contributes to joint pain and inflammation, leading to arthritis in cats. Obesity also exacerbates the strain on joints, increasing the risk of cruciate ligament tears, intervertebral disk disease, and hip dysplasia [2].
Urinary conditions: Obese cats have a higher risk of kidney and urinary tract infections, as well as urinary tract stones [2].
Gastrointestinal conditions: Compared to normal-weight cats, obese cats have a different bacterial composition in their gut, increasing the risk of liver and pancreatic diseases [3].
Shorter lifespan: Studies show that obese cats have a 30% lower likelihood of reaching 12 years of age [3].

Symptoms of obese cats

Obese cats lose their hourglass figure, with rounded middle areas and less visible-but-not-easily-palpable ribs. They may display the following additional symptoms:

Exercise intolerance: Obese cats tire more easily and are less active [2].
Lameness: Cats may display limping and reduced jumping ability [2].
Changes in breathing: Obese cats may breathe faster or require more effort to breathe [2].
Increased appetite: Obese cats may show signs of hunger, such as frequent begging for food [2].
Increased thirst and urination: Obese cats may drink and urinate more frequently [2].
Skin changes: Obese cats may have greasy or unkempt fur due to difficulties grooming certain areas effectively [2].

Diagnosing and treating cat obesity

Veterinarians diagnose obesity by evaluating a cat's body condition score and reviewing past weight history [2]. For weight loss strategies, a combination of diet and increased physical activity is recommended under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Dietary Strategies

To ensure safe and effective weight loss, consult with a veterinarian to tailor a diet plan specific to your cat's needs. This may include:

Transitioning from free-feeding to meal feeding. Providing set meals helps control food intake and prevents overeating [4][5].
Choosing wet food. Wet food is more filling and hydrating, helping reduce the risk of overeating and dehydration compared to dry food [4][5].
Reducing calorie intake. Gradually reduce your cat's daily calorie intake by 60-80% of their current consumption or adopting a weight management cat food [4].

Physical Activity Strategies

In addition to a balanced diet, engaging in physical activities can support weight loss:

Increase playtime. Use toys that stimulate your cat's natural hunting instincts [4].
Use interactive toys. Toys that require a cat to work for food can help stimulate their mind and increase physical activity [5].
Provide environmental enrichment. Vertical spaces and climbing structures can encourage exercise and exploration throughout the day [4].

Monitoring and Support

Regularly track your cat's weight loss and adjust the diet and exercise plan as necessary. Use body condition scoring and consider joining a weight clinic for additional guidance [3].

Additional Tips

Avoid using food as rewards. Replace treats with grooming sessions or playtime to maintain affection without adding extra calories [3].
Be consistent and patient. Weight loss should be gradual to prevent health issues, so stay committed to the weight loss plan and be patient [4].

References

Chiang, Chih-Fan et al. "Prevalence, risk factors, and disease associations of overweight and obesity in cats that visited the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis from January 2006 to December 2015." Topics in companion animal medicine vol. 47 (2022): 100620. doi:10.1016/j.tcam.2021.100620
Partington, C et al. "The effect of obesity and subsequent weight reduction on cardiac structure and function in dogs." BMC veterinary research vol. 18,1 351. 20 Sep. 2022, doi:10.1186/s12917-022-03449-4
Scarlett, J M, and S Donoghue. "Associations between body condition and disease in cats." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association vol. 212,11 (1998): 1725-31.

Enrichment Data:

To optimize diet strategies, consult with a veterinarian to determine the best options tailored to your cat's specific needs.
Gradually reduce your cat's calorie intake to promote safe and effective weight loss.
Encourage physical activities through various means, such as playtime, interactive toys, and environmental enrichment, to support weight loss efforts.
Track your cat's weight loss regularly and make adjustments as needed for optimal results.
Monitor your cat's body condition score to assess progress throughout the weight loss journey.
Be consistent and patient, understanding weight loss should be gradual to maintain good health.
Keeping up with the latest science in health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise can provide valuable insights for helping your overweight feline friend lose weight, such as the benefits of wet food for weight management.
A rigorous understanding of veterinary advice, including weight-management strategies, is essential in addressing the science behind cat obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles for our feline companions.