Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in companion cats, affecting an estimated 30-40% of the indoor cat population in developed countries. Excess weight dramatically increases the risk of diabetes, joint disease, urinary problems, liver disease, and certain cancers. It also reduces quality of life and lifespan.
Assessing Body Condition
The body condition score is a visual and tactile assessment of fat coverage. From above, you should be able to see a visible waist tuck behind the ribs. From the side, there should be an abdominal tuck after the ribcage. When you run your hands along the ribcage, you should be able to feel the ribs with a thin fat covering — not visibly prominent, but palpable with light pressure.
Causes of Feline Obesity
The primary cause is caloric intake exceeding caloric expenditure. Free-feeding dry food — leaving a bowl full all day — is the most common contributor. Dry food is calorie-dense, and a cat who grazes all day consumes far more than they would from two measured meals. Indoor cats also burn far fewer calories than outdoor cats with access to wide territories.
Safe Weight Loss
A safe rate of weight loss is 1-2% of body weight per week. Rapid weight loss in cats is dangerous and can cause hepatic lipidosis, a potentially fatal liver condition. Always transition to a weight management food gradually, and always consult your veterinarian before starting a weight loss program for your cat.