Dry Cat Food for Weight Control

Just like humans, overweight cats have a higher risk of health problems and early death than slimmer animals. Overweight cats are more likely to have skin problems, arthritis, diabetes, liver disease and a number of other ailments. Most vets recommend diet change as a technique to reduce a cat's weight, and commercial weight control cat foods are a common choice. However, weight control is manageable using ordinary dry cat food as well.

  1. Goals

    • Owners should make sure that they choose a realistic time line and weight goal for their pets. Just like humans, cats can suffer serious side effects if they lose weight too fast. Rapid weight loss may result in liver disease and other health problems. It also increases the chance that the weight will come back. Veterinarians usually recommend a weight loss of 1to 2 percent of a cat's body weight per week, over a period of several months to a year.

    Calorie Reduction

    • Reducing calorie intake is the traditional method for controlling a cat's weight. Most feline weight loss diets are high fiber, low calorie plans. Owners may also simply feed their cats less of their ordinary dry cat food. In both cases, it's important to monitor the cat's condition. Plans of this type may cause loss of muscle mass as well as fat, and maintaining weight loss may be difficult.

    High Protein

    • High protein, low carbohydrate diets that more closely resemble a wild diet may help some cats more than calorie restriction. Often called "Catkins" diets, these plans often use canned food or raw meat, but some high protein dry foods may work, too. According to Winn Feline Health, Royal Canin Calorie Control, Hill's Prescription Diet m/d, and Purina Diabetes Management foods are all appropriate for this weight loss strategy.

    Considerations

    • Cats must not have access to other food sources when on a controlled diet. Owners should restrict treats, avoid free-feeding, and refrain from offering human foods. Low calorie treats designed for cats may be acceptable. If the cat appears to be hungry, feed smaller amounts more often. Feed an overweight cat in a separate area from other pets to prevent it from having access to their food.

    Supplementation

    • Cats on a low calorie diet often get fewer nutrients than they're accustomed to. A cat on a restricted diet may need a vitamin and mineral supplement to maintain activity levels and overall health. Many weight reduction foods are deficient in fatty acids, though some new formulations include supplements. Ask a vet about supplementing an obese cat before the diet begins.