How to Stop a Cat from Overeating

According to PetMD, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention conducted a study in 95 vet clinics across the United States. The results showed that an estimated 57 percent of the nation's pet cats were overweight or obese. If your cat is overweight, putting it on a diet may prolong your pet's life. Weight problems in cats can lead to major health complications like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and respiratory problems. These conditions are life-threatening and expensive to treat. Take your cat's weight problem seriously. A lethargic, obese cat makes for an unhappy and unhealthy pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring cup
  • Cat toys
  • Healthy cat treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin your efforts with a full medical exam. Your vet will weigh and examine your cat to rule out any medical reasons, like hypothyroidism, for the weight gain.

    • 2

      Give measured amounts of food each day as opposed to keeping the food bowl continually filled. If an overabundant diet caused the weight problem, ask your vet for your cat's ideal goal weight and the specific amount of cat food you should provide each day.

    • 3

      Provide daily play time and exercise, especially for indoor cats. Certainly a treadmill is excessive; simply play with your cat from 15 to 30 minutes each day. Pet stores carry plenty of toys to motivate even the most lethargic of cats.

    • 4

      Avoid giving your cat unhealthy treats. High-calorie cat treats fill the pet aisles in most grocery stores. Shop for a healthy alternative which provides vitamins and minerals. Pet stores and vet offices often carry healthy kitty snacks.

    • 5

      Cut out table scraps. While denying a loving and purring cat some leftover chicken salad may seem cruel, remember that human food lacks the specific nutrients required by your feline. And ingredients like mayonnaise and sugar will not help your cause.