How to Tell if Your Cat Is Too Fat and Needs To Go On A Weightloss Diet

How do you know if your cat is too fat -- or just fluffy?

Just as in people, a healthy diet and proper weight are important for long life and optimum health.

Overweight cats are more likely to have diabetes, lameness and skin problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Your cat
  • A scale -- your own bathroom scale will be fine.
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Instructions

    • 1

      Like a healthy person, a healthy cat should have a waistline.

      Hold your cat with both hands and move them slowly towards the tail until you come to the end of the rib cage.

      A healthy cat will have an indentation, a waistline, there.

      If you feel a bulge it is a sign of your tabby being overweight.

      Some hefty cats have bulging, low hanging stomachs and a layer of fat on their ribs, too.

    • 2

      If you have a pedigreed cat, you can purchase a book that will tell you what their weight should be.

      To find kitty's weight, just weigh yourself on your bathroom scale, then pick up your cat and weigh the two of you together. Subtract your weight and you will know what your cat weighs.

    • 3

      If you have a mixed breed cat, your veterinarian can tell you what he or she should weigh.