How to Prevent Obesity in Cats?
Obesity is a health condition which is equally harmful to cats just as it is for humans. An overweight cat is vulnerable to a number of problems like Diabetes, Arthritis, Hypertension, Heart Disease, etc. This is why all cat owners should focus on keeping an ideal body weight for their cats.
In this blog, you will see 5 simple tips to maintain excellent weight in cats, which will, in turn, benefit their overall health. So let us begin,
- Notice Their Food Intake
One of the primary reasons for obesity in cats is overeating. Many cat owners have this habit of leaving out the cat food open so that the cats can eat it whenever they like. This makes the cats consume more than their daily calorie limit and suddenly gain much weight. Instead, you should set a fixed time for feeding and offer only that much food that is needed per your cat’s age and activity level.
- Choose High-Quality Cat Food
Not all cat foods can nourish the cats. If you are a cat owner, you should opt for high-quality, nutritionally balanced cat food which is apt for your cat’s age and health status. Avoid feeding them cheap fillers and excessive carbohydrates, as these can make the cat overweight quickly. You can consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your cat.
- Provide Regular Exercise
Just like us, cats, too, need regular physical exercise to stay fit and healthy. The easiest way to make them move around is by offering them cat toys like Interactive Toys, Plush Toys, and Catnip Toys, which help stimulate them physically and mentally. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of playtime each day so that your cats can burn off the extra calories they have consumed.
- Give Them a Nice Environment
Since cats are natural hunters, they thrive in an environment stimulating their natural instincts. This is why cat owners should allow their felines to play, climb and explore. To keep your cats physically and mentally stimulated, you can offer them accessories like cat trees, scratching posts, motorised string1 toys, etc., making them strong and healthy.
- Monitor Their Weight Regularly
Cats are animals who quickly gain weight, so you should keep checking their weight regularly. If you see a sudden increase in their weight, it may indicate an underlying illness. Contact your vet immediately if you see an abrupt change in their weight or a change in their behaviour.
- Avoid Feeding Table Scraps
While it may be tempting for owners to share their food with the cats, it is not a good idea. The main reason for this is the excessive calories present in these table scraps, which can make the cats quickly gain a lot of weight. Also, if you feed them cat treats, do not feed them more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.
In a Nutshell,
Keeping an ideal body weight in the cats goes a long way in maintaining excellent health in them. These 6 tips will tremendously help you to prevent obesity in cats and promote a vibrant life in them. Remember that a healthy cat is a happy cat.