Weight gain can creep up on us and it’s no different with your cat, but having that extra pound or two does make a huge difference to your cat’s wellbeing and long-term health. So, you may be scratching your head wondering how to help your cat lose weight. However, tackling weight loss needn’t be a weight on your mind. Sandhole Vets can support you with nutrition and exercise plans that will help support your cat’s journey to reach their optimum weight for their age and breed.
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Food for Thought
Your cat's diet will be integral to this, as this is probably the single most important factor in promoting and sustaining a healthy weight. It is not just the amount that is imperative to get right, but the type of food and number of times per day your cat should eat.
Cats require a good daily dose of vitamins D and E, a source of Omega 6 and a balanced intake of minerals. When choosing cat food, be sure to read the packaging to ensure the nutritional requirements are met, whether the food is wet or dry. Cats can be fussy eaters so you may have to try a variety of options to see which one suits your cat’s needs the best when helping a cat to lose weight.
How to Help a Cat Lose Weight
Quench their thirst
Do ensure a bowl of clean drinking water is available throughout the day for your cat, no matter how regularly you feed them. Milk is no substitute for water and is best avoided, no matter how much your cat may lap it up.
Feeding Time
How often and how much you feed your cat can be advised by your veterinary team here at Sandhole Vets as this will depend on several factors including age, breed, weight, and activity level. It’s important to remember that your cat will have different dietary requirements at different life stages so do check with your veterinary team along the way to ensure you're doing the best you can by your cat to keep them a healthy weight.
Food Glorious Food
There are certain foods that should be avoided at all costs because they are inherently dangerous:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Raisins and grapes
- Macadamia nuts
- Bread dough
- Alcohol
- Anything containing artificial sweeteners
Cats cannot effectively process carbohydrates which is why dog food (heavy in carbohydrates) is a no-go. Sticking to a meaty, nutritionally balanced and nutrient-rich cat food is the best way to help sustain and promote a healthy weight for your cat, and help your cat lose weight where needed.
For any questions you may have, please book one of our weight clinics and speak to our friendly team.
