Many households in North America have cats, and according to a recent 2022 survey by the Pet Obesity Prevention Association, 61% of pet cats are overweight, with 38% of them classified as obese. 1 Obesity is defined as being 20% or more over your ideal body weight. It is a growing concern that poses undeniable health risks and must be addressed. Below are 7 reasons why feline obesity is dangerous for your pet.
7 reasons why obesity is dangerous for cats
1. Increased risk of diabetes
Diabetes is a condition characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood and urine. In cats, type 2 diabetes is often caused by insufficient production of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating glucose. Signs of diabetes include rapid weight loss, increased urination and water intake, and changes in appetite.
Cats who develop diabetes require strict diet, weight loss, and glucose regulation to control blood sugar levels, which is usually achieved with insulin therapy. Treating diabetes requires time and dedication from the owner, as most cats receive insulin injections twice a day.
If not properly controlled, diabetes can lead to complications such as secondary urinary tract infections, diabetic ketoacidosis and reduced quality of life. Cats can recover from diabetes with proper treatment and weight loss.
2. arthritis
Obesity significantly increases the risk of arthritis and limits mobility. A cat that is considered obese is carrying at least 20% more weight than their ideal body weight, which puts additional strain on their small frame and leads to bone changes. In addition, fat releases various substances that cause inflammation, causing further discomfort.
If your patient develops arthritis, they will experience increased discomfort and find it difficult to lose weight. Adjunctive treatments such as joint supplements and painkillers are recommended. It is best to consult your veterinarian to get more information on possible interventions.
3. Increased anesthesia risk
Just like in humans, obesity puts a strain on the heart, which can lead to cardiac changes and high blood pressure. Additionally, obese patients often have trouble breathing because their rib cage cannot expand sufficiently due to excess fat. These factors are associated with an increased risk of anesthesia complications. 1Obese patients will require respiratory support in the form of preoxygenation and ventilation during anaesthesia. Drug dosage and selection may need to be adjusted in overweight cats and recovery may be longer.
Four. Hepatic steatosis
When food is suddenly reduced for several days, whether due to dietary restriction or illness, an overweight cat’s body is not able to respond properly. The liver cannot properly use stored fat, fails to process it, and fat accumulates in liver cells, a condition known as hepatic steatosis.
When this happens, the liver can no longer function properly, and systemic effects set in. Signs of hepatic lipidosis include loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes due to bilirubin buildup), rapid weight loss, vomiting, and death.
Five. Lower urinary tract disease
Overweight cats are more likely to develop feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), a broad term that describes conditions that affect the bladder and urethra. Examples of FLUTD include idiopathic cystitis, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones.
Cats with FLUTD may experience symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, urinating in inappropriate places, etc. Obese cats are more prone to developing FLUTD due to their lifestyle.
Generally, overweight cats are more sedentary and indoor-constrained, two factors that cause stress and boredom in cats, significantly increasing their risk of developing FLUTD. Fat stimulates the release of inflammatory cells, which also Contribute to the development of FLUTD.
6. constipation
Obese patients can become constipated due to changes in mobility. Unfortunately, obese patients often have a hard time approaching the toilet and are unable to maintain their position, making defecation difficult. As a result, patients may not be able to defecate regularly or completely, which can lead to stool reflux.
7. Shorter life span
Obesity shortens lifespan due to the aforementioned health concerns and reduced quality of life. No pet owner wants to see their beloved pet become sedentary or struggle to perform daily tasks. As a result, humane euthanasia may be called for in severe cases.
How to tell if your cat is overweight
Veterinarians will assign your pet a body condition score during a routine physical exam based on several parameters outlined in the WSAVA. Body Condition Score ChartYou can also use this chart to help you determine your partner’s body type. Body type charts typically use a nine-point scale, with ideal body scores being in the middle and obese being at the higher end of the scale.
How to Fight Obesity
The goal for patients struggling with obesity is to lose weight. This can be achieved in two main ways: diet and exercise. Your veterinarian is an excellent resource for guiding your cat through weight loss. It is recommended that you weigh your cat frequently to ensure weight loss is gradual and adjust the treatment plan based on the weight lost.
exercise
Getting your cat to exercise may seem impossible, but it is possible. Simple things like placing your cat’s food bowl away from its favorite spot or letting it play with a laser pointer for a minute or two can encourage activity. There are also toys that release a few pellets at a time when your cat bangs on them; this is a fun way to encourage activity and also provides a reward. Rehabilitation programs are also available through your veterinarian.
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diet
Your vet can help you adjust your cat’s diet to help them lose weight. It is very important that the weight loss is gradual – no more than 0.5-2% of their body weight per week. As mentioned above, a sudden reduction in caloric intake can lead to hepatic steatosis.
A change from a high-carbohydrate to a higher-protein diet will likely be recommended. This can be achieved by switching your cat’s dry food to a diet of canned food, which tends to be lower in carbohydrates. There are also special veterinary diets available from your vet to encourage weight loss.
The importance of a healthy weight
Obesity poses a number of risks to your cat’s health. Improving your obese cat’s condition can greatly improve their quality and longevity of life. Weight loss should be gradual and working with your veterinarian can help you achieve this goal safely.
Featured image credit: Dennis van de Water, Shutterstock
