Animal obesity is just about as much of an epidemic as human obesity. There aren’t a lot of definitive sources for keeping your pet in shape, so how do you keep your cat from gaining weight? There are a few relatively easy things you can do to help your feline friend stay in shape.
Exercise is very important for all living beings, and cats are no exception. If your four-legged friend is hanging around and not getting much exercise, he or she will definitely gain weight. Something as simple as getting a toy your cat will chase can give them a head start on fitness.
Proper nutrition can be a problem for pets. Some studies now show that dogs and cats are not getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals to ensure they stay healthy, and some foods are nothing but carbohydrates – we already know they are bad for humans. Cats especially need the protein that comes from meat, they are hunters by nature. If you don’t know what kind of food to buy for your pet, then ask your veterinarian for a good suggestion. He or she can help you make a good choice based on your pet’s needs. Unfortunately, most pet foods that are meat or protein based are more expensive than their grain-based competitors, but these are undoubtedly the best foods to help fight animal obesity.
Feeding times and amounts could be causing a problem, too, and one of the biggest causes of animal obesity. Many pet owners fill their pet’s bowls once a day or have those automatic feeding machines which allow their pets to eat as much as they want to as often as they’d like. This is called “free feeding” and can be detrimental to your pet’s waistline. If you think your cat may be eating too much, consult your vet as to how much and how often your cat should be eating.
Many pet owners never take their animal to the doctor until they are sick, but animals need regular checkups just like people. Make sure to get your pet to the vet as often as the doctor suggests.
If your cat is active and eating properly but is gaining weight, there may be an underlying medical problem. Get them to the vet and have some tests run to make sure you’re doing all you can do for your devoted pet.