Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Effective weight loss programs for overweight cats
By Michel, Kathryn & Scherk, Margie·Published in Journal of feline medicine and surgery·2012·University of Pennsylvania, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: From problem to success: feline weight loss programs that work.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A significant number of cats, especially middle-aged, male, mixed-breed, and neutered ones, are overweight or obese, which can lead to serious health issues like diabetes and joint problems. Simply switching to a weight-loss diet often isn't enough; a successful weight loss program involves a combination of a specific diet, controlled feeding amounts, regular exercise, and engaging activities to keep the cat stimulated. By focusing on communication and commitment from the owner, many cats can achieve a healthier weight and improve their overall well-being.
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Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Obesity is the most common unhealthy nutritional condition that is recognized in cats. Documented associated health risks include diabetes mellitus, lameness, non-allergic skin disease, feline lower urinary tract disease and idiopathic hepatic lipidosis. CLINICAL CHALLENGES: Simply recommending a diet designed for weight loss fails, in most cases, to result in successful weight loss in the obese or overweight cat. A more in-depth approach that centers on communication and commitment, alongside a program of feeding a predetermined amount of a specific diet plus exercise and enrichment of the cat's life, offers a chance for a healthy result. PATIENT GROUP: It has been reported in some developed countries that as much as 40-50% of the feline population may be overweight or obese, with middle-aged cats, male cats, mixed-breed cats and neutered cats being at greatest risk. AUDIENCE: This review of what is currently known about the health risks, predisposing factors and treatment of excessive weight gain in cats is aimed at all veterinary health professionals. EVIDENCE BASE: The information reported in the review is drawn from the current scientific literature as well as from the clinical experience of the authors.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22511475/