Obesity is a common disorder in cats, especially with age, so caregivers should know that it’s not just an aesthetic problem. Obesity and overweight will affect our cat’s health, so this is a condition we should avoid. In this Animal Expert article we will explain how to know if a cat is large, the consequences of this problem and the steps that can be taken to get the feline back to its ideal weight.
Cats are characterized by their agile and elegant shape. Capable of jumping, climbing and running, they function as perfect machines, so they must maintain an adequate physical condition. Thus, if it is not possible to determine the ideal weight according to age, there are criteria that specify whether the cat is at its ideal weight, thinner, much thinner or, on the contrary, overweight or overweight, or to a lesser degree. The criteria are in a series of items that can be found in veterinary centres.
- An ideal weight cat is well proportioned.
- You can appreciate its size and the ribs are palpable.
- Even visible.
- In addition.
- Abdominal fat buildup is minimal.
- Already in an obese cat it will be difficult to touch the ribs.
- Because a layer of fat will prevent it.
- The feline will have a rounded abdomen.
- Also due to the accumulation of fat.
- The size will not be distinguished either.
- In some cases.
- There will also be fat deposits in the lower back.
- Therefore.
- The body condition of a cat is evaluated based on observation and palpation.
We have already seen how to know if a cat is fat, now we will comment on the elements that will help us keep it in its ideal body condition:
As we can see, there are many factors involved in being overweight. In addition to those mentioned, they also influence race, gender or age or those who depend on caregivers such as the choice of plan, and how it is proposed, in addition to the type of environment it offers and even its perception of the patient. fitness. Animal. These are factors we can intervene on.
If after all the directions we have seen on how to know if a cat is fat, we conclude that our four-legged friend is overweight, we should take seriously the recovery of his ideal body condition. Obesity is a risk factor for the development of different diseases and can also aggravate clinical symptoms of other diseases. On the other hand, obese animals have a limited tolerance to exercise and heat and have more complications when using anesthesia.
In addition to increasing physical activity and enriching the environment when we know our cat is fat, we can try to help you lose weight through food. To do this, we must count on the help of our veterinarian who, depending on the current consumption of our cat, will calculate the amount we will give him daily to lose weight.
It is important to reduce fat consumption, but not protein, and also increase the amount of fiber and water ingested, so that wet foods can help in these cases. It is also preferable to ration food in several servings rather than offering it for free throughout the day. A weight-loss diet can also include premiums, however, always attentive to the calories they provide, which in no case can exceed 10% of daily energy. The veterinarian should monitor the progression of weight to re-evaluate the diet.
This article is for informational purposes only, in Animal Expert.com.br we cannot prescribe veterinary treatments or make any kind of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case of any type of condition or discomfort.
If you would like to read articles similar to, we recommend that you visit our Prevention section.