Cat Views

Did you have a tubby tabby, or a plump Persian? Your feline friend may be too adorable for words, but if your cat is fat it’s probably got some health problems, or will develop them eventually.

Some studies have found that nearly 40% of domestic cats are medically obese, meaning they have 20% or more excess body weight. Cats that fall into this category will likely experience poor health, and a shortened life.

When cats pack on the pounds their bodies suffer. Feline diabetes, urinary tract disease, arthritis, skin conditions, and heart and liver disease afflict overweight cats.

Many cats are beggars. They beg their owners for bites of their food, and then beg more for some of their own food. When a cat’s diet consists only of dry food, which so packed with carbohydrates that a small amount can provide them all the energy they need for the day, they tend to eat more to feel full. Cat’s will usually east less often if their dry food is mixed with soft food. Soft food fills cats up faster.

Another option is to provide activities for your cat. A cat gym, tower, or cat tree can motivate most cats to jump and climb, allowing them to burn calories.