Feline Obesity the Growing Problem
This month our newsletter will address the growing number of obese and overweight cat population.
A recent clinical study at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine had indicated that about 40% of cats seen at veterinary clinics are obese, and about 10% are overweight.What is considered to be overweight or obese, would be a cat that is 20% or more above normal weight. This increase in weight can affect the cat’s normal physical activity as well as compromise their quality of life.
There are several disorders that being overweight can aggravate, they are osteoarthritis,diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular health.
How do, you know if your cat is overweight? Some veterinarians will use a 9 point scoring system to assess the cat’s weight. A score of 9 indicates the cat is grossly obese. A cat with a score of 8 and above would be classified as overweight, a score of 6.5 to 7 would be considered overweight, The ideal weight would be classified as 4.5 to 5 points . If the cat was emaciated, or severely under weight it would be classified as 1. Another method to determine if your cat is overweight is a rib check, this is where a owner runs their hands (palm face down) across the cat’s rib cage. A profile check is where the animal is viewed from the side, and an overhead check is where the cat is observed from over top of the cat. If the cat is obese the ribs will not be palpable under the fat layer.
The studies reveal that the major cause of the overweight cat is due to”free choice feeding” this is where a bowl of dry food is left out for the cat to consume throughout the day.
We would like to advise our clients that weight loss should be done on the advice of a veterinarian and under their guidance only. If cats lose weight to quickly, or are put on a starvation diet, it can cause serious health issues. The best plan is to set a goal and observe a gradual weight loss that consists of 1 to 2 % body weight loss per week. As always if you have questions regarding the best approach on this matter, please contact our office for proper advise and care of your cat’s weight loss program. The office can be reached at 860-721-6369.
