Signs Your Cat Might Be Overweight

A little extra fluff is adorable, but there are some telltale signs that your cat might be carrying around too much. Keep an eye out for these symptoms:

🐱 Rounder than usual: Does your cat have a visible belly sagging when they walk? (Check out the Royal Canin Body Condition Score Chart to help you identify your cat's body shape)

🧼 Trouble grooming: Excess weight can make it hard for your kitty to reach all those places they need to groom.

💤 Reduced activity: If your cat’s exercise routine consists mainly of moving from one nap spot to another, they might need some help getting active.

😮‍💨 Breathless after play: Do they seem out of breath after just a few minutes of play? That could be a red flag.

Why is Cat Obesity a Problem?

Carrying extra weight isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to serious health problems. Here’s why keeping an eye on your cat’s waistline is important:

🦴 Joint Pain: Extra pounds put extra strain on your cat’s joints, which can lead to arthritis and reduced mobility.

❤️ Heart and Respiratory Issues: Obesity can make it harder for your kitty to breathe and can strain their heart.

🩺 Diabetes: Overweight cats are more prone to developing diabetes, which requires lifelong treatment and monitoring.

⏳ Reduced Life Expectancy: Obesity can shorten your cat’s lifespan, which means fewer years of purrs, playtime, and companionship.

How to Help Your Cat Get to a Healthy Weight

The good news? With a few simple changes, you can help your kitty shed those extra pounds and enjoy a healthier, happier life. Here’s how to get started:

🎾 Get Moving: Playtime is a great way to get your cat active! Try using toys that mimic prey, like feather wands or laser pointers, to encourage your kitty to run, pounce, and leap.

🍽️ Mind the Portions: Stick to the feeding guidelines on your cat’s food packaging, and don’t forget to factor in treats (they can add up quickly!). Consider a puzzle feeder to slow down mealtime and keep their brain engaged.

🐾 Visit the Vet: Your vet can help you develop a tailored weight loss plan for your cat, and they may recommend a specific type of food or exercise regimen based on their needs.

📊 Track It with Moggie: Monitoring your cat’s activity can give you insights into their daily exercise levels. With Moggie, you can track your kitty’s movement and even see trends over time, helping you stay on top of their health.