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Weight Loss Diets for Cats

Overview

Obese cats run a greater risk for developing diabetes, arthritis, liver disease and other health problems. An overweight cat has a shorter life span than a healthy cat as well as a lower quality of life. Most feline weight issues can be controlled through regulating the cat's diet at home. However, you must check with a veterinarian before beginning any weight-loss regime for your cat and set healthy weight-loss goals with the help of your doctor.

A healthy diet is an effective way to control your cat's weight
Kinds of Food

Obese cats must start eating fewer calories to lose weight. One way this can happen is to feed your cat less food. Decreasing food must be done carefully, as cats that suddenly eat less food are susceptible to the fatal hepatic lipidosis condition. The amount of food a cat needs is dependent on her size. Check with your vet to see how much to feed your cat each day. Treats will set back your cat's weight-loss progress. Feed her treats sparingly, if at all. Healthy treats such as cooked chicken or fish will be better than fatty store-bought treats. Cats on a weight loss diet must still receive the same nutritional value from their food, even if they are eating less. Low calorie foods are formulated to contain essential vitamins to compensate for this change in diet. Many diet cat foods work with the cat's metabolism to increase her calorie burning. Every cat is different, and it may take some experimentation to find a diet food that works for your cat.

Feeding Methods

Many cats eat on a "free-feeding" system, where food bowls are left continually full and the cat eats at her own pace. Start controlling exactly when and how much food your cat is fed. Your vet will have recommendations on how much food to give your cat each day. Multiple cat households will have to put all cats on a feeding schedule, or move the overweight cat's food to a separate place. Controlled feeding will help you keep a close eye on your cat's eating throughout the diet. Food bowls on a timer can regulate your cat's feeding while you are away, and pet sitters can keep up specific regimens.
Exercise and Environment

No feline weight loss diet will be as successful without exercise. Play with your cat regularly to help her burn calories. Cats love to hunt, so choose toys that get her to chase, stalk and pounce. Interactive games keep both cat and owner entertained. Laser pointers or motorized toys will engage your cat while only taking a few minutes of your time. Toss crumpled-up papers across the room as you work to keep your cat from becoming lethargic when you can't pay attention to her. If you leave your cat alone for long periods of time, hide toys around the home for her to find. Place her favorite toys on windowsills or cat trees to force her to climb. Divide up portions of your cat's meal and leave small piles around the home for her to hunt. Working physical exercise into your cat's weight loss plan will boost her success and leave her happy from the extra attention.

Balconies and patios are a safe place for cats to run and chase bugs without being totally outdoors