Facts About Cat Obesity
Obesity is one of the TOP HEALTH RISKS in America*
58% of cats in America are overweight or obese*
Overweight and obese cats have an increased risk of:*
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Breathing Problems
- Osteoarthritis Pain
- Shortened Life Expectancy
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Kidney Disease
1 extra pound to a cat can be the equivalent to more than 20 pounds for a person*
Why are our cats getting overweight?
Factors that cause obesity in pets:
- Access to too much food
- Poor quality food
- Too many treats
- Not enough exercise or play time
Healthy-weight pets can live up to 2.5 years longer than overweight pets
For a cat with an ideal weight of 10 pounds, each extra pound is equivalent to about an extra 15 pounds for a 5'9" man.**
For a cat that would weigh 5 pounds, these double to an extra 30 pounds for a 5'9" man.**
What the ideal weight looks like
- Your cat's face should appear slim with a clear bone structure.
- You should see a clear definition between your cat's head and neck.
- Your cat's ribs should be easily felt when you gently pat their side.
- Your cat's abdomen should be slightly slimmer than the chest and hips.
- See our breed information to find out the ideal weight for your cat's breed.
Cats can be weighed at home by holding them with you on a scale, then subtracting your weight from the total. Talk with your veterinarian to find out if your cat is overweight and get a recommended weight management plan.
* Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
** "Obesity Facts & Risks" Association for Pet Obesity Prevention