Obesity in cats can cause a variety of health related problems and may even shorten the lifespan of your beloved cat. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to become informed on the issue and find a healthy way to get your cat’s weight back on track.
Cat Obesity by the Numbers
The number of cats tipping the scale at above-average weights has increased year over year, with 55 percent of cats classified as overweight or obese by their veterinarian, according to a 2011 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). Of the 88.4 million pets deemed too heavy by their vets, study results found that owners of these pets may have trouble recognising the issue, with 15 percent of cat owners characterising them as having a normal weight when actually obese, according to APOP.
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How do Cats Become Overweight?
Cats become overweight for a variety of reasons including high calorie intake, too little exercise, too frequent feedings and consuming table scraps or foods made for people, said Katie Grzyb, DVM at the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group in Brooklyn, NY. Treats have also become a major part of the issue. In an online poll conducted by APOP, 93 percent of cat owners give their cats treats, with 26 percent reporting that they gave their cat multiple treats per day. Any one, or combination of, these things over time can lead to a dangerous problem.
Related products
Sterilised Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Sterilised Adult Dry Cat Food with Salmon has a unique weight management formula to help burn fat, build muscle and keep sterilised cats lean. Made with high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients.
Hairball & Perfect Coat Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Hairball & Perfect Coat Adult Cat Food with Chicken is formulated to effectively help avoid hairball formation in adult cats while promoting a beautiful coat. Thanks to its mix of essential omega-6 fatty acids, this food benefits the cat's skin and fur, keeping them healthy and shiny. Our Advanced Fibre Technology helps reduce hairballs by naturally promoting their passage through the gut. This food is formulated with high-quality protein for a perfectly balanced, great-tasting recipe.
Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Wet Cat Food with Turkey is a complete pet food for adult cats, aged 1–6 years. This highly digestible wet food comes in a pouch and supports healthy digestion, as well as nourishes skin and promotes a thick and lustrous coat.
Light Adult Cat Food
Chicken recipe dry cat food with L-carnitine and fewer calories for ideal weight management in adult cats. Packed with high-quality protein, omega-6s, and vitamin E for shiny fur and healthy skin.
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Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.