In the United States, a staggering 61% of cats are overweight or obese, according to a 2022 survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. This alarming statistic highlights a growing health crisis among our feline friends.
As cat owners, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of excess weight in our pets, as obesity can lead to a host of health problems and even shorten their lifespan.
1. The Complete Body Check
A healthy cat should have both a visible waist when viewed from above and a subtle upward tuck behind the ribs when viewed from the side. When you look down at your cat, you should see a slight indentation just above the hips, creating an “hourglass” figure.
From the side, their belly should curve up gently behind their rib cage rather than hanging straight down or sagging. If your cat’s profile shows a straight line or bulging belly, and their silhouette from above is more oval or round, it’s likely they’re carrying excess weight.
2. The Bone Detection Test
A healthy cat should have bones that are detectable but not prominent. Gently run your hands along your cat’s sides and back – you should be able to feel the ribs and spine with only light pressure, similar to feeling the back of your hand.
If you have to press firmly to detect these bones, or can’t feel them at all, your cat is likely overweight. The hip bones should also be detectable under a thin layer of fat without having to press hard.
3. The Grooming Challenge
Overweight cats often have difficulty reaching all parts of their body to groom properly. Cats are naturally flexible and fastidious groomers. If you notice your cat struggling to reach certain areas, particularly their back or hindquarters, it could be due to excess weight. This can lead to matted fur or skin problems in hard-to-reach areas.
You might also notice them spending less time grooming or requiring more help from you to stay clean.
4. The Mobility Monitor
A cat that hesitates or struggles with movement may be carrying extra pounds. Watch how your cat navigates their environment. If your once-agile feline now hesitates before jumping onto the couch or bed, takes multiple attempts to make the leap, or avoids certain heights altogether, it could be a sign that extra weight is holding them back.
Heavy breathing or panting after minimal activity is another red flag.
5. The Facial Features
As cats gain weight, fat can accumulate in their face, giving them a rounder, more “chubby-cheeked” appearance.
If your cat’s face looks fuller than usual, with less definition around the cheeks and jawline, and their neck seems to have disappeared into their shoulders, it could be a sign of overall weight gain.
6. The Bathroom Behavior
Weight can significantly impact your cat’s bathroom habits. An overweight cat might struggle to use their litter box properly, sometimes even missing it entirely due to difficulty maintaining proper posture.
You might notice them taking longer to position themselves or showing signs of discomfort when using the box. These changes can also lead to increased accidents outside the box, as they may avoid using it if it becomes too uncomfortable.
7. The Food Fixation
Changes in your cat’s relationship with food can indicate a weight problem. Watch for increased food obsession, such as more frequent begging, aggressive behavior around meals, or attempting to steal food from other pets or even off your plate.
An overweight cat might also eat their food too quickly, almost gulping it down, and seem unsatisfied no matter how much they eat.
8. The Temperature Tell
Overweight cats often struggle with temperature regulation. If your cat seems to be panting more than usual, especially during warm weather or mild activity, it could be due to excess weight.
You might notice them seeking out cool surfaces to lie on, even when the temperature isn’t particularly high, or becoming unusually lethargic during warm weather. They might also groom less frequently because the activity makes them too warm.
9. The Joint Jumper
Extra weight can put significant stress on a cat’s joints, leading to visible changes in movement. If your cat shows reluctance to jump or climb, takes stairs one at a time when they used to bound up them, or seems to favor certain legs when walking, it could indicate joint stress from excess weight.
You might also notice them being more sensitive when certain areas are touched, particularly around their hips or lower back.
Time to Trim: Your Cat’s Path to Purr-fection
Recognizing these signs early can help you take action to get your cat back to a healthy weight.
If you suspect your feline friend might be overweight, consult with your veterinarian to develop a safe and effective weight loss plan. Remember, a healthy cat is a happy cat!
Source:
1. Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.