Obesity has become some sort of epidemic in the US and it’s a problem that doesn’t only affect humans but for pets as well. Lack of exercise and unhealthy habits can lead to weight gain in dogs and cats which, if left untreated for a long period of time, can result in obesity. This is not a laughing matter since obesity can’t only limit the mobility of your cat, but it can also have a negative impact on his longevity and overall health. If your cat has a normal weight, he won’t only be healthier, but he’ll lead a happier life too.
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What is the First Step You Should Do to Help Your Cat Lose Weight?
Excess weight in cats is actually linked to several health issues that are serious and could shorten the lifespan of your cat. If your cat is currently overweight and you want him to lose weight, the first step you should take is to visit your trusted vet.
Weight loss for cats is a bit different than for humans, so you will need to follow the instructions of your vet to help your kitty lose weight safely following the right exercise and diet. Your vet will also determine the right target weight necessary for your cat and probably recommend the right daily calorie intake in order to ensure that your cat does not lose weight very quickly, which is unhealthy. Everything should be done in the right process so a visit to your vet is necessary.
Does Your Overweight Cat Need A Weight Loss Food or Maintenance Diet?
First and foremost, your vet will help choose the right diet to support the weight loss process of your cat. The very first thing a vet looks for is a kind of diet that meets the nutritional standards of the experts. This step makes sure that your cat will have the right nutritional needs to support his overall health and well-being while trying to lose weight.
If your cat is just mildly overweight or you’re just worried simply because he’s eating a lot than his regular food ratio, then the solution might be to offer him smaller meals. However, in some cases, it is preferable that you switch from a maintenance food to one that’s specifically formulated for weight loss in cats.
These specialized cat diets provide much lesser calories while still giving your cat the necessary nutrients, to make sure that your cat receives a balanced diet loaded with appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, fat, minerals, vitamins, and protein.
Best Types of Weight Loss Foods for Overweight Cats
We have listed some of the quality foods that vets look for in reputable and effective feline weight management or weight loss process.
Hight in Protein Cat Foods
Cats are carnivores by nature, which is why they need high levels of dietary protein in their daily food. Compared to fat and carbohydrates, proteins are more efficiently converted into energy. Since the weight management diet in cats tends to be less dense in calorie content than a maintenance diet, then it is important to ensure the diet you provide to your cat still gives enough protein to prevent muscle mass loss since your cat loses body fat in the process.
High Moisture and Fiber Content Cat Foods
Weight management diets in cats should be higher in water and fiber content. Both of these important ingredients can help a lot in preventing your feline friend from becoming hungry after his meals. Thus, your vet might recommend wet food to support weight management to your cat, rather than a dry food diet.
Cat Foods with Carnitine Content
Several studies have shown that carnitine, an amino acid, has a big role in a cat’s weight loss. Carnitine is present in muscle naturally and is known to turn fat particles into energy, which can be efficiently metabolized by the body. Therefore, supplementing the weight loss diet of your cat with L-Carnitine can surely give benefits to the metabolism of your cat.
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Common Questions About What You Should Feed Your Overweight Cat
What Should I Feed My Overweight Cat?
Most vet nutritionists recommend that treats can make up to ten percent or less of daily calorie intake. So, the moment you need to give your cat a treat, make sure to choose high-protein, natural options such as cooked, plain fish, or chicken. Bear in mind that when your cat begs for food, he actually just might want some attention from you.
What Can I Do for My Overweight Cat?
Cats with a healthy weight are happier, tend to live longer, and more agile. Here are some ways to help your kitty lose weight:
- Talk to your vet
- Look into diet food
- Count Calories
- Cut the grazing
- Consider canned
- Make your cat hunt
- Nix the treats
- Consider a feeding ball
- Try walking your cat
- Make playtime engaging
- Put some climbing posts
- Keep the water flowing
- Ignore his begging for food
- Check for progress
How Do You Feed an Overweight Cat?
Feed your overweight cat his diet in one room while you feed the other cats their food elsewhere. After you allow them to feed for a certain time, like generally 15 to 30 minutes, make sure to remove any leftover food until their next feeding. Make sure to feed cats with a normal weight somewhere where your overweight cat can’t go.
Conclusion
Aside from making changes to the diet of your overweight cat, it’s also important to consider increasing calorie burn daily through exercise. Don’t try to force your obese or overweight kitty to run around your house since there are also some ways to boost the daily activity of your cat, helping him to burn more calories. Make sure to ask your vet about it during your visit.
