Obesity is a concerning trend, whether in humans or felines. Millions of cats across the world are either overweight or obese because many cat owners believe their fluffy pets are at a healthy weight when they actually are not.
Gaining weight should be worrisome because feline pets on the heavier side are more vulnerable to diseases. Excess weight lowers the quality of life and longevity, which is why you should tackle it right when your furry baby starts to put on a few kgs.
This is considered one of the most significant health risks for fur babies. An overweight furball can quickly develop breathing issues, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, osteoarthritis, and renal dysfunction. Cats at an ideal weight often live a few more years than overweight or obese pets.
Be on top of the regular wellness checkups to identify potential health conditions early. At the same time, consider being prepared with the best pet insurance, so your four paws’ health is comprehensively covered.
Cat insurance allows you to provide timely medical care during dire health situations and emergencies with little economic stress. Contemplate purchasing a policy because health issues are often unpredictable, and providing medical assistance is inevitable.
In the meantime, read this article to learn the top reasons for a cat gaining weight.
1.Feeding poor-quality food
Feeding your cat low-grade food or treats excessively can make it susceptible to weight gain. In a case like this, your vet might recommend a low-carb, low-calorie, high-protein diet plus nutritional supplements to help your cat slim down.
2.Not paying attention to portions
Suppose you regularly offer your cat food made of high-quality ingredients, and still it is gaining weight; then you should probably check on the portions you are feeding it. Too much feeding means too many calories entering your furry pet’s body.
If you are feeding your cat too often, providing it with an unlimited supply of food day and night, or serving large portions at every meal, then blame yourself and not your cat for the unwanted weight gain.
3.Few opportunities for physical activity
Failing to provide your cat with a means to play, have fun, and exercise can make it too lazy, sedentary, bored, fussy, and unhappy. Give your cat opportunities to run, chase, pounce, and leap within the home boundary. Interactive playtime and attractive toys can help set your furball onto the path of an active lifestyle and lose those extra calories.
4.Offering table scraps and human food
We know it can be hard to resist the temptation of treating your cat to human food like milk, cheese, and chips, but still, control your instincts and offer your munchkin only cat-safe and vet-approved food for the best results.
A cat may finish all that you give it to eat, so it is your responsibility as a cat parent to give it only all it needs and nothing more. Otherwise, weight gain and associated health issues can be imminent. Consider being equipped with the best pet insurance to tackle unanticipated vet costs with minor financial stress during distressing health situations and emergencies. Contemplate purchasing cat insurance early on in your pet’s life because cats can fall sick and more with declining age. This way, you may not have to worry much about the finances involved at least.
