Is Your Cat Overweight? Signs, Symptoms & What to Do

While a plump cat may seem adorable and huggable, even a small amount of extra weight can be harmful to your feline companion's health in the long run. In this article, our veterinarians across all locations will explore several indications that your cat may be carrying excess weight. 

Is my cat overweight?

As a cat owner, you may not realize the significance of your cat's weight on their overall health and lifespan. However, carrying extra weight can increase your furry friend's risk of severe and life-threatening conditions. Even a few extra ounces can significantly impact your cat's well-being. Therefore, it's crucial to monitor your cat's weight and keep them at a healthy weight to ensure their well-being.

Diseases Linked to Obesity in Cats

Cats that are overweight face an increased risk of developing a number of serious conditions including: 

How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight

At Hohenwald, our vets have some tips on how to spot if your cat is overweight. To ensure your cat is at a healthy weight, it's essential to bring them for regular wellness checkups. Your vet can examine them personally and advise you accordingly.

Check Out the Overweight Cat Chart:

The illustrations in the overweight cat chart above can help you better understand your cat's weight category and whether your cat may be carrying an extra pound or two. Which illustration best represents the size of your cat?

Difficulties Jumping

Does your cat have trouble running or jumping? Cats are supposed to be agile and easily handle low jumps. If your cat struggles to jump onto low surfaces or gets tired easily, it might be because of their extra weight.

Look for Your Cat's Waist

When your cat is standing, please look at them directly above. Try to locate a slight indentation just above their hips where their waist should be (although this can be difficult with long-haired cats). If you cannot see their waistline or if their sides seem to be bulging, it's likely that your cat is carrying extra weight.

Your Cat's Ribs Should Be Easy to Feel

As a cat owner, you can check if your feline friend is at a healthy weight by feeling their ribs as you stroke their chest. If you have difficulty feeling their ribs, it could mean that your cat is carrying excess weight and may benefit from weight management measures.

How To Help Your Cat Achieve a Healthy Weight

Determining your cat's ideal weight depends on factors such as breed, age, and overall size. It's a good idea to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your cat is overweight. Your vet can evaluate your cat's current weight, advise you on the ideal weight for your furry friend, and guide you on achieving a healthier size. If your cat is only slightly overweight, reducing their portion sizes or limiting treats may be all that is needed to help them shed some pounds. For cats who need to lose a significant amount of weight, your veterinarian may suggest switching to a prescription diet that is specifically designed to aid in feline weight loss.

Gaining Weight for No Apparent Reason

If you've noticed your cat is gaining weight unexpectedly, it's important to take them to the vet to find out what might be causing it. Unexplained weight gain could be a sign of a health problem that must be considered. Please don't delay in getting your furry friend the care they need.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.