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Fat Cats... No More!!
This article dedicated to ensuring that your cat is in good
condition and weight. I have looked at many websites and not one breeder
addresses this issue that could be more deadly than other genetic diseases
combined. I thought it was high time there is an article!
In today's society, not only are more people becoming obese,
but so are our beloved pets. Estimates of obese cats range from 20-40% in the
United States. Obesity is a very important issue to address because in most
cases it is treatable. Some think it is cute or funny to have a fat cat.
Unfortunately, when you strip it down to the facts, there is nothing funny about
feline obesity. It can shorten the cat's life, lead to painful medical issues
and a lower quality of life.
Special Note about the Sphynx Breed: The Sphynx are supposed
to look like they just ate a big meal, but that does not mean they should be
overweight. In Sphynx, it seems being overweight is excused more so than other
breeds.
How do I Tell If My Cat is Overweight?
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I would not necessarily go by what your vet
says. Some are more lenient than they should be as it can hurt
some people's feelings about their pets. I have seen overweight
cats that vet's have said are in "Ok" weight. You want "GREAT"!
Take the time to learn what the parameters are for a cat in
healthy weight for yourself.
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There is no specific weight that can be used
for all cats as they range greatly in size. Even in one cat
breed, the weight ranges can vary. One cat can be 10 pounds and
in fabulous weight. Another cat can be 10 pounds and really need
to be 8 pounds and the 10 pounds would be considered obese.
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You should be able to feel the individual
ribs.
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There should not be fat bulges by the tail
base
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There should not be noticeable fat deposits
on the body
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Your cat should have a waist
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Here is a link to view what the vet's use to
determine obesity:
http://vet.osu.edu/vmc/body-condition-scoring-chart
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Oh my word! I just realized my cat is overweight!
Do not beat yourself up... just yet. You have realized the problem, that
is the first step to solving the issue. We see our cats everyday and their
weight gain can sneak up on us... just like our own can. Take action and you
will see a more lively, happier cat in your future.
Causes of Obesity
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If your cat is overweight, please take your
cat to your vet for examination and testing to ensure the cause
is not medical.
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Overfeeding- This is the number one cause of
obesity. Cats should not be allowed to free feed.
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Medical Issues - These can be resolved by
giving appropriate medications.
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Medical Issues Caused By Feline Obesity:
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Diabetes
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Arthritis
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Hepatic Lipidosis
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Heart Disease
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Higher risks during surgery
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Premature Death
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Other Issues Caused By Feline Obesity
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Inappropriate litter box
habits - your cat may be so heavy, it may be hard to get in and
out of litter box.
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Poor grooming- inability to reach backside
for proper cleaning
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Inactivity, less energy
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Weight Loss Programs
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Weight loss should always be done under vet
supervision. You will need to see your vet every 2-4 weeks
during the diet to monitor the weight loss.
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Every cat and home environment is different
so the diet plan will have to be tailored for each cat.
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Your cat cannot have too rapid of weight loss
or be starved. Starvation or too little food can is very
dangerous and can cause fatty liver disease.
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No free feeding, set up routine with 2-3
meals a a day. Pick up food in 10 minutes. You would be
surprised how quickly they learn to eat during that time.
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Eliminate dry food, very high in calories and
does not represent proper natural food. If your cat refuses to
eat canned food, you must give cat 1 tablespoon of dry food with
each meal to ensure it does not get fatty liver disease from not
eating.
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Decrease caloric intake.
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Some eating may be emotional and feeding 4
tiny meals a day might be beneficial.
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Some vets and experts will recommend diet
food. I would steer clear of diet foods. They are not as nutritionally
sound. Usually, decreasing the amount of food is the
answer.
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Eliminate or minimize treats
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Exercise! Find a toy the cat likes and play
with them for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
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Communication with everyone in your home or
pet sitter is important. Make sure everyone in your home is
aware of the diet and complies. In some homes with multiple
people, the animals are given treats repeated over and over
without the other being aware.
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Here is an article that I think is very good to read about
nutrition and obesity
http://catinfo.org/?link=felineobesity
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