Why Is My Cat Fat & Moody?

Cats, just like people, are prone to weight gain; along with this can come changes in a cat's mood. Be vigilant for both weight gain in your cat and for any changes in his mood. These symptoms, however, may not always be linked, and there are many causes of feline bad temper.

  1. Are Fat Cats Moody?

    • Although not all fat cats are moody, there's some correlation between a cat's mood and its weight. Cats are by nature inquisitive; they like to be outside exploring and being active. Our lifestyles and work patterns have created situations where cats end up fat, sitting indoors, overeating and with little to occupy their time. It's inevitable cats end up moody if this is what their lives are like.

    Tips to Avoid Fat, Moody Cats

    • Cats that sleep all the time may become obese.

      Even if your cat lives indoors, ensure it gets lots of exercise. It needs to burn off the calories it takes in, just as you do. Cats that go outside are rarely overweight. For your indoor cat, create an interesting environment with tall cat trees, beds placed in high places and lots of toys; play with it daily and introduce hunting and chasing games to stimulate its brain. Know what your cat weighs and ask your vet for your cat's ideal weight. Feed quality products and never overfeed or give human foods. Create a safe outdoor exercise space if possible.

    Feeding Fat and Moody Cats

    • Fat cats are at risk of serious diseases.

      Fat cats sometimes need to go on a diet. Think about your cat's ideal weight and what it eats every day; how can you can reduce calorie intake while keeping its nutrients balanced? Ask your veterinarian for advice on appropriate food measures according to the type of food used. Try feeding fresh chicken and rice in place of one daily meal, but don't replace the whole diet or it won't receive the correct nutrients.

    Other Causes of Moody Cats

    • A slimmer cat is a happier cat.

      Just because your cat is fat, it's not the definite cause of its moodiness. If it's suddenly become bad-tempered take it to a veterinarian; it may have another problem. Some issues causing mood changes in cats are dental pain from bad teeth or sore gums, pain from other causes, anxiety or stress caused by changes in the home, and kidney or urinary tract diseases. A cat in discomfort for any reason may seem unusually irritable.

    Fat Cat Warnings

    • If you have an overweight cat, its bad mood isn't all you should be worried about. Overweight cats carry increased risk of developing serious illnesses such as heart failure, diabetes, arthritis and respiratory failure. If your cat needs a general anesthetic, the risks are greatly increased if it's overweight.