Is My Cat Overweight? Signs, Causes and Safe Weight Loss Tips

If your once-svelte feline is looking a bit more cuddly lately, you might be wondering: is my cat overweight? A few extra grams can sneak up on our pets quickly, but weight gain in cats can lead to serious health issues. Fortunately, there are clear signs and simple steps that can help keep your cat healthy and thriving. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet – and we're here to support you every step (and purr) of the way.

How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight

Cats come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s not always easy to tell when your cat has packed on a little extra fluff. Here’s what to look for:

• Ribs are hard to feel: If your cat’s ribs are difficult to feel under a layer of fat, this could be a sign of excess weight.
• Little or no waistline: From above, your cat should have a slight hourglass figure. A rounder silhouette could mean extra kilos.
• Low energy: An overweight cat might be less interested in playtime or jump up to high perches.
• Difficulty grooming: Cats are naturally very clean. If your cat struggles to groom, it may be due to limited mobility caused by excess weight.

If you’re unsure, chat to your vet or try a Body Condition Score (BCS) chart at your next check-up.

Health Risks Of Cat Obesity

Maintaining a healthy weight isn’t just about looking good in a cat harness. Excess weight can put your cat at risk for a range of health issues:

• Diabetes
• Joint strain and arthritis
• Heart and respiratory issues
• Urinary tract problems
• Reduced lifespan

Fortunately, a proactive approach to nutrition, exercise, and routine care can help your cat stay at their best.

What Causes Weight Gain In Cats?

There’s usually more than one factor at play. Some of the most common reasons Kiwi cats gain weight include:

• Overfeeding and free feeding: Unlimited food access can quickly lead to overeating. Try using smart feeders to manage portions.
• Too many treats: Treats are great for bonding and training, but too many high-calorie snacks can add up fast. Explore our range of healthy cat treats that support wellness.
• Lack of activity: Indoor cats especially may not get much exercise. Keep them moving with interactive cat toys that encourage chasing, pouncing, and problem-solving.
• Underlying health issues: Conditions such as hypothyroidism or fluid retention can also cause weight gain. Regular vet visits are important for ruling this out.

Helping Your Cat Lose Weight Safely

If your cat is overweight, crash diets are not the answer. Cats need steady, safe weight loss to stay healthy and avoid serious complications such as hepatic lipidosis. Here’s how to help:

• Choose a weight management formula: Switch to food designed to support fat loss and lean muscle. Look for trusted brands like Hill’s Prescription Diet or Royal Canin Vet.
• Use portion-control feeding tools: Try measured bowls or smart feeders to stay consistent with meal sizes.
• Incorporate daily play sessions: Use teasers, chasers or tech toys to get your kitty moving.
• Try meal toppers: Healthy toppers and mixers can encourage fussy eaters to enjoy diet food without adding unnecessary calories.
• Supplement support: Consider weight management supplements or digestive aids to support their metabolism.

Always introduce any diet changes slowly and under the guidance of your vet.

Keeping Your Cat At A Healthy Weight

Once your cat reaches their healthy weight, keeping it steady is just as important. Here are some helpful habits to stick with:

• Stick to regular feeding times and distractions like interactive toys when your cat is food-demanding.
• Encourage movement with new scratching posts or climbing trees to stimulate natural behaviours.
• Monitor weight monthly using the same scale for consistency.
• Keep treats minimal and nutritious – opt for natural treats when reinforcing good behaviour or just showing love.

Wellness doesn’t have to be boring – just balanced. A little planning and the right tools from Petdirect can make all the difference.

Helping Your Cat Stay Healthy Long Term

Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight is one of the kindest things you can do for their long-term wellbeing. From recognising the signs to making simple lifestyle tweaks, you’re already on the right track just by asking, “Is my cat overweight?” At Petdirect, we understand your passion for pet health – because We Get Pet.

Explore our top feline weight management essentials, or join our Pet Perks loyalty programme to earn rewards while caring for your cat.