How to Know When to Put Your Cat on a Diet

Many cat owners love to spoil their furry companions with treats and indulgent meals. Unfortunately, that can lead to obesity and many other health problems. Here are the facts: over half of the cats in the United States are overweight. Therefore, it is essential to observe your cat's weight and adjust its diet accordingly. 

Our team at Incredible Pets, located in Sacramento, Auburn and Grass Valley California, discusses how to determine whether your cat needs to go on a diet and what steps to take to help them slim down. We are the region’s leader in top-of-the-line diet cat food. Keep reading to learn more. 

Signs your cat should go on a diet

It can be difficult to tell if your cat is overweight, particularly if you own a longhaired breed. Here are some signs to watch for:

Loss of energy

Overweight cats are often lethargic due to the extra weight putting stress on their joints, making it harder for them to move. You may notice that your cat is sleeping more than usual or not as playful. If you notice a decrease in your cat's activity levels, it may be a sign that they need to lose weight with diet cat food.

Can’t feel their ribs

Use your hands to lightly squeeze the sides of your cat’s rib cage. If the ribs are easily felt, it is probably not overweight. But if you have to press to feel the ribs, your cat may be heavier than they should be and would benefit from a diet. 

Also, look at your cat's waistline. Its body should become more slender from the belly to the back legs. A swinging pouch between your cat's hind legs is also an indication your cat is overweight.

Struggling with grooming

Cats take pride in keeping themselves clean by constantly grooming. But if your cat is overweight, it may have trouble reaching certain areas, such as its back or tail. That can lead to matting, skin irritation, or infection. If your cat is having difficulty grooming, it may be a sign that they need to lose weight.

If you're still unsure if you have an overweight cat, come see us at Incredible Pets. With our assistance, we can build a personalized diet for your feline. 

Breathing issues

Extra weight can put pressure on a cat's lungs, making breathing a struggle. Watch for wheezing or panting, especially after exercise or physical activity. If your cat is struggling to breathe, it may be time for a diet and you should visit your vet. In severe cases, obesity can lead to respiratory failure — a significant and life-threatening condition.

Growing in size

This one is probably the most obvious sign you should consider putting your cat on a diet. If you can visibly see excess fat on your cat, it’s time to help it lose weight. Pay attention to its stomach and head area. A round belly or thick layer of fat around their neck is a sure sign that your feline is overweight.

Joint issues

Extra weight stresses your cat's joints, which can keep them from staying active and exercising. It can even lead to joint problems, such as painful arthritis. If your cat is having trouble moving or jumping, it may be a sign that they need to lose weight by going on a diet.

How can I help my cat lose weight?

To encourage weight loss, it's best to start by cutting out all treats and never sharing human food with your feline. You might feel like you're being unfair, but it's essential to get your cat’s weight under control.

Optimal weight loss occurs when you limit your cat’s caloric intake. But how can you do that while ensuring your cat is still meeting its nutritional needs? Learning about your options for diet cat food and weight management cat food is the first step. 

Incredible Pets is the go-to destination for cat owners looking for the best diet cat food options in Sacramento and surrounding region. Our team understands the importance of proper feline nutrition, and we're proud to offer a wide selection of weight management cat food products from top brands like Hill’s Science Diet and Nutrisource. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping pet parents find the perfect diet for their cats, and we're committed to providing high-quality, healthy food options for felines of all ages and breeds.

Whether you're looking to manage your cat's weight, improve their digestion, or simply provide your pet with a balanced diet, Incredible Pets has everything you need to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Check out these top diet cat food brands by clicking this link.