Pet Nutrition Q&A: Kitty Weight Loss
My cats are very fat. One weighs 25 pounds and the other is 17. What can I do to help them lose weight?
—Marcus
We’re glad you’re concerned, Marcus, because overweight pets are at a greater risk for developing diseases such as diabetes. We recommend a visit to the veterinarian, who will examine your cats to determine how healthy they are. If your pets are overweight but healthy, you can start them on a weight-loss program.
We generally recommend high-quality "light" commercial products combined with exercise, but based upon your cats' examinations, your veterinarian will be able to recommend specific diets for them. Just keep in mind that weight loss in pets, like weight loss in people, should be a gradual result of diet and regular exercise.
We also recommend encouraging your cats to play. Find toys that they enjoy and rotate them regularly so that they continually have new sources of stimulation. Cats can also be taught to fetch—a great way for them to exercise.
Please visit our online Animal Behavior Center for more ways to keep your cat active.
Ask the ASPCA Nutritionists your question!
—Marcus
We’re glad you’re concerned, Marcus, because overweight pets are at a greater risk for developing diseases such as diabetes. We recommend a visit to the veterinarian, who will examine your cats to determine how healthy they are. If your pets are overweight but healthy, you can start them on a weight-loss program.
We generally recommend high-quality "light" commercial products combined with exercise, but based upon your cats' examinations, your veterinarian will be able to recommend specific diets for them. Just keep in mind that weight loss in pets, like weight loss in people, should be a gradual result of diet and regular exercise.
We also recommend encouraging your cats to play. Find toys that they enjoy and rotate them regularly so that they continually have new sources of stimulation. Cats can also be taught to fetch—a great way for them to exercise.
Please visit our online Animal Behavior Center for more ways to keep your cat active.
Ask the ASPCA Nutritionists your question!
Labels: Pet Nutrition
posted by ASPCA at 1:16 PM PERMALINK
1 Comments:
I have an 8 year old spade female. She is totally afraid of everything except my Yorkie Poo. When younger she was very active, but after having to move twice all she wants to do is eat and sleep. I watch her diet and try to get her to play. Every once in a while she will harrass the dog and they play pretty well together but not long enough for get an real exercise. The vet can find nothing really wrong with her.
Post a Comment
<< Home