Cat Obesity: Health Risks and Solutions

The Obesity Epidemic

Over 50% of indoor cats are overweight or obese. Excess weight is not just cosmetic — it significantly increases the risk of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

Health Risks

Obese cats are 3-5 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Joint stress accelerates arthritis. Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis) can develop if an obese cat stops eating suddenly.

Assessing Body Condition

Feel your cat ribs — you should be able to feel them without pressing hard. Viewed from above, your cat should have a visible waist. From the side, the belly should not sag.

Safe Weight Loss

Cats should lose no more than 1-2% of body weight per week. Rapid weight loss risks hepatic lipidosis. Work with your vet to create a calorie-controlled plan.

Exercise Strategies

Use puzzle feeders, laser pointers, and interactive toys. Split meals into 3-4 small portions throughout the day. Even 10 minutes of play twice daily helps.