The essentials
- Talk to a veterinarian first — Before putting your cat on a diet, consult a veterinarian. This can keep your cat healthy while they shed the extra pounds.
- Mental health is just as important as physical health — New routines may take a toll on a cat’s mental health. Increase playtime and diversify their sources of enrichment.
- Stay the course — Your cat may complain and act out on a new diet. Know what to expect and find ways to handle the behavior changes without consuming extra food or treats.
If you can’t feel your cat’s ribs or notice they have trouble breathing, it’s probably time to help them lose weight. Only a few pounds over their ideal weight puts them at risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, some cancers, and arthritis. While your chunky puffball may be adorable, being overweight can shave years off your cat’s life. Here’s what pet owners need to know about helping their cats lose weight.
When does your cat need to lose weight?
Like humans, cats can have underlying health conditions that influence their weight, like diabetes or thyroid issues that need professional diagnosing. These conditions require diagnostic testing and professional veterinary management. Speak with your veterinarian if you notice your cat gaining weight. They will be the best judge. However, there are some telltale signs that your cat may need a diet.
Cat and dog weight body condition scale.
- You can’t feel their ribs. Ribs that aren’t palpable to the touch on either side of your cat’s torso might indicate your cat is overweight. Extra padding often develops naturally with age, but it’s concerning with younger cats.
- They’re less active than usual. If your cat no longer seems interested in chasing, pouncing, or jumping, it may be difficult for them to move around. Those extra pounds can result in joint issues , heart problems, and fatty liver disease as they age.
- They experience breathing changes. Rapid breathing can occur after your cat engages in strenuous activity, sneezes, or coughs up a hairball. But if your cat starts panting or wheezing while resting, they may need to lose weight.
- Reluctance to jump or use stairs. Although arthritis is common in older cats, the added pressure on joints makes obese cats more prone to arthritis. Arthritis symptoms include a reluctance to jump — especially onto their favorite area. This might include difficulty going up or down stairs or getting out of the litter box.
5 ways to help a cat lose weight
Your vet may suggest several strategies to help your cat lose weight. Depending on your cat’s specific needs, they may recommend changing their diet, increasing activity, or a combination of things.
1. Change meal size
Serving your cat smaller, more frequent meals can support their weight loss. This method ensures your cat gets the necessary nutrients without overeating. Wet food contains fewer calories than dry food but maintains similar volumes, helping your cat stay satisfied without excessive calorie consumption. Diets high in fiber and low in fat, or high in protein and low in carbohydrates, also contribute to a feeling of fullness, keeping your cat satiated for longer.
2. Play more
Play more with your cat to keep them active and mentally stimulated. A wide variety of cat toys can maintain their interest and engagement. Add tunnels, vertical spaces, climbing trees, or puzzles to their environment. These toys promote jumping and movement, helping to increase their activity level.
3. Go for a walk
Besides increasing physical activity, the mental stimulation from outdoor walks can help prevent them from eating out of boredom. Some cats may feel anxious outdoors, especially if they’re lifelong indoor cats. Get your cat used to a harness or a cat backpack so they can safely explore the outdoors or become familiar with being outside. Also, consider installing a catio with cat-proof fencing.
4. Consult your vet
Although no safe weight loss medication exists for cats, consult your vet for recommendations. Certain health issues like joint and digestive problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can complicate exercise for cats. Your vet can suggest the best course of action tailored to your cat’s health.
5. Give them an omega-3-rich diet
Consider introducing omega-3 fatty acids into your cat’s routine. Omega-3 fatty acids may help control blood sugar and fat levels and lower insulin levels, helping cats manage obesity. They may help reduce inflammation produced by excess body fat, helping them lose weight.
What to expect when your cat's on a diet
Cats don’t get a say in whether they go on a diet. It’s not a committee decision — they just have to live with a little less food in their bowl every day, and you’ll have to deal with some behavioral changes.
- Expect a lot of complaining. Cats meow when it’s close to their regularly scheduled feeding time. It’s one of their only ways of communicating; expect to hear it a lot more when they receive fewer feedings or less food. Be patient. Divert their attention with toys or a brushing session.
“This can be an ear-piercing yowl and make others “crazy,” but try not to give in.” – Dr. Bruce Armstrong
- Guard people’s food. Cats naturally scavenge and hunt. Serving less food may result in trying to get some for themselves. It’s best to keep them inside during this time. When unsupervised outside, you can’t stop them from eating food left unattended for strays, the trash, or mice. Keep any household food covered and stored out of your cat’s reach.
- Have a good bedtime routine. Cats don’t like to go to bed hungry. You might struggle to go to bed if an agitated cat is running loose. To avoid this, feed the largest meal close to bedtime. Playtime throughout the day may also lead to a sleepier cat at night.
Managing your cat’s diet and exercise requires patience and consistency, but maintaining a healthy weight can help their overall well-being and longevity. Remember, cats often test boundaries. But by sticking to your vet’s recommended routine and providing lots of mental stimulation, you can help ensure your cat stays vibrant, healthy, and active.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get my indoor cat to lose weight?
Feed them smaller, more frequent meals, or try feeding them wet food. Also, spend more time playing with your cat to make sure they get more exercise. Speak with your vet about how to help your cat lose weight.
What should I feed my overweight cat?
Wet food is ideal because it typically has fewer calories, although you can supplement it with small portions of dry food. Ask your vet for their recommendation.
Can walking your cat help them lose weight?
Yes! In addition to providing exercise, walking your overweight cat provides mental enrichment that can prevent them from boredom or loneliness-inspired snacking.
How long does it take for a cat to lose weight?
It can take a cat 6 to 8 months or longer to lose weight and reach a healthy body weight. Your vet, a veterinary nutritionist, or cat food manufacturers can help you determine the best food to feed them and how much weight they can safely lose each month.
How much should I feed my cat to lose weight?
How much you feed your cat to lose weight depends on their individual needs. Speak with your vet about an appropriate portion size for your cat.
