What is obesity, and what causes it?
In general, a pet is considered overweight when it weighs 5–10% more than its ideal body weight. Obesity is diagnosed when a pet is 20–30% overweight.
There are many possible causes of obesity, and it is often due to a combination of factors rather than a single cause. Overeating combined with too little exercise is an obvious reason, but other factors can also play a role.
Imbalance between food and exercise
Just like in humans, pets gain weight when they consume more calories than they burn. Food provides energy, which is needed for body maintenance and activities like walking and playing. If your cat is inactive, excess energy is stored as fat.
If a cat consistently eats more food than it needs, it will eventually become overweight. That’s why it’s important to maintain a balance between nutrition and exercise and to be mindful of high-calorie treats.
Neutering or spaying
Neutered or spayed cats require less energy than intact cats. Special light formulas for neutered cats are available, which contain reduced calories and extra fibre to help prevent hunger.
Age
Older cats tend to sleep more and move less than younger cats, which lowers their energy needs. Senior cat foods are formulated with reduced energy content while still meeting their nutritional requirements.
Medical causes
Certain medical conditions can lead to weight gain. If you suspect a health issue, it’s important to have your cat examined by a veterinarian. Conditions that limit movement, such as arthritis or joint problems, can also contribute to obesity. Additionally, some medications can cause weight gain.
Health risks of obesity
Obesity increases the risk of several health conditions. Overweight cats are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop diabetes compared to their slimmer counterparts. They are also more prone to joint problems, fatty lumps (lipomas), shortness of breath, and reduced fitness levels.
Pregnant cats with excess weight may experience complications during labour, sometimes requiring a C-section, which carries higher anaesthetic risks due to increased body fat.
Obese pets also have a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to illnesses and slower recovery from disease. Finally, obesity increases the risk of skin problems, as overweight cats struggle to groom themselves properly.
How to tell if your cat is overweight
It is often difficult to objectively determine the ideal weight for a specific breed or even an individual cat. Due to differences in size, body structure, species, and breed, owners may find it challenging to recognise if their pet is overweight.
A useful indicator is to check whether your cat’s ribs are still easily palpable. In an overweight cat, the ribs are hardly noticeable without applying pressure.
Other signs of obesity include:
- Excess belly fat
- Loss of a visible waistline (when viewed from above)
- Reduced stamina (easily tired, slow movements)
- Shortness of breath
Your veterinarian can help assess whether your cat is overweight and determine their ideal weight.
What to do if your cat is overweight
When medical causes of obesity have been ruled out, it is important to examine the balance between food intake and exercise. Adjustments are often necessary, with attention to the following points:
- A balanced, high-fibre diet ensures that your pet consumes less energy while still meeting its nutritional needs, for example, Orijen Fit & Trim. Such food contains high-quality proteins and fibres that help reduce appetite. Some diets also stimulate metabolism.
- Portions should be weighed using a scale. If this is not done, owners often estimate by eye, leading to overfeeding.
- Many owners like to give their pets (high-calorie) treats. It is best to choose low-energy treats. If a snack is given, an equal amount of food should be deducted from the regular meal to compensate.
- Exercise is essential! The best way to get cats moving is through play. Many types of toys are available for this. To create a feeding challenge, you can spread food across multiple areas or bowls, hide food, or use a feeding toy. This not only encourages movement but also provides mental stimulation.
When a cat needs to lose weight, it is extremely important that this does not happen too quickly. Slow weight loss is better than a rapid drop in a short period. If weight is lost too quickly, it can lead to health issues such as fatty liver disease. A 1–3% reduction in body weight per week is a healthy rate for weight loss.
Preventing Obesity
As obesity can lead to serious health problems and reduce a cat’s quality of life, it’s essential to maintain a healthy balance between diet and exercise. Regular weight checks and monitoring food intake can help. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian for advice on managing or preventing obesity in your cat.
