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