Cats are known to be a pretty happy and relaxed breed, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have their own health problems. One of the more common issues is obesity. Just like with humans, being overweight comes with its own health risks. This, in turn, can lead to a shorter life expectancy.
While cats can’t speak for themselves, they do have body language which can be interpreted. When a cat stands on a chair, for example, this usually means they’re begging for food. It’s also important to note here that cats are very sensual animals and view food as a type of art. They may even consider a saucer of milk a work of art! If you want your cat to lose weight, you need to ensure their food is high in nutrients and low in fat.
Offer Them Indulgent Foods
As previously stated, cats are very artful and may consider a saucer of milk a work of art. This doesn’t just relate to food either – offering your cat a treat or toy can be viewed as a gesture of appreciation. When a cat enjoys an item, it usually means they’re trying to communicate their feelings to you.
Giving your cat treats and toys to play with is one of the simplest ways to get them to shed some weight. The key here is variety, as offering your cat the same type of item day after day can become mundane. You should consider trying different foods, such as fish or turkey for vegan cats, to keep their interest.
Create A Healthy Environment
If you want your cat to remain healthy and trim, you need to ensure they have the adequate space to move around in. This can be a difficult task when you’re renting property, but ensuring there’s a litter tray in place and the area is well-lit is the key to keeping your cat healthy and trim.
It’s also important to consider your cat’s environment, whether it’s indoor or outdoor spaces. Indoor cats often develop health problems due to excessive cold and dampness, so keeping them indoors can drastically reduce the risks associated with their condition. This doesn’t just relate to temperature either, as indoor cats often spend more time in poorly ventilated spaces, which can contribute to the development of respiratory problems.
Consult A Veterinarian
There’s no replacement for expert medical advice when it comes to your pet’s health, and it’s important to remember this. Cats have specific health needs which must be met with the appropriate diet and lifestyle changes. If you’re not sure where to begin, veterinary professionals can help you establish a course of action, which may include suggesting certain foods or supplements to aid your cat’s particular needs.
Ensure you consult with a professional before making any changes to your cat’s diet and lifestyle, as doing so can drastically improve their health and well-being.
Use Natural Products
There are several over-the-counter products on the market that can assist in the maintenance of a healthy weight for cats. These can be a cost-effective option for those who want to reduce the financial burden associated with treating their cats’ health problems, as well as those who want to make sure their cat gains weight naturally.
Look for products high in nutrients and low in fat, ensuring they meet the recommended daily intake for cats. Talk to your vet about what products would be appropriate for your cat and their needs. For instance, does your cat suffer from kidney disease and are they on dialysis? Would a product containing electrolytes be a good fit for them?
Monitor Their Progress
Varying the type of food a cat eats can help to boost their metabolism and encourage them to shed weight. As previously stated, cats are very artful and may consider a saucer of milk a work of art. This doesn’t just relate to food either – offering your cat a treat or toy can be viewed as a gesture of appreciation. So, if you’re monitoring your cat’s health and want to know how they’re progressing, giving them a variety of stimulating items can help show significant improvements.
While cats can’t speak for themselves, they do have body language which can be interpreted. When a cat stands on a chair, this usually means they’re begging for food. It’s also important to note here that cats are very sensual animals and view food as a type of art. They may even consider a saucer of milk a work of art! If you want your cat to lose weight, you need to ensure their food is high in nutrients and low in fat.