Overweight cat: how to help them get back in shape

More than a third of cats in France are overweight or obese. This is the leading cause of diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease in cats.

How to tell if your cat is overweight

Rib palpation method: run your hands over their sides. You should feel the ribs without seeing them and without pressing hard. If you can't feel them: probable overweight. If you can clearly see them: underweight. Ideal weight: between 3 and 5 kg for an average European cat.

Main causes

• Neutering/spaying (reduces metabolism by 20-30%)
• Free feeding (kibble always available)
• Lack of stimulation and physical activity
• Inappropriate diet (kibble too high in calories)

Fitness plan

Diet

Switch to a light food (less than 3500 kcal/kg). Divide into 2 to 3 measured meals (weigh the portions — a measuring cup is not precise enough). Reduce gradually: 10% less per week, no sudden diet which risks hepatic lipidosis.

Activity

Daily play sessions: 2 x 10 minutes minimum. Puzzle feeders: the cat has to work to eat. Multi-level cat tree to encourage climbing.

Monitoring

Monthly weighing. Goal: 1 to 2% weight loss per month. Faster = dangerous. Consult your veterinarian if no progress after 8 weeks.