Is My Cat Overweight? Signs & Symptoms

Sometimes when our cats gain weight we view it as cute, but that extra weight can have a huge impact on your cat's health. Our Clarksville vets will talk about how to tell the signs and symptoms of an overweight cat. 

How Your Cat's Weight Can Affect Their Health

If your cat is overweight, there is a much higher chance that they will develop a serious or potentially fatal condition.  A few extra ounces may be all it takes to significantly affect your cat's vitality and general health.

Increased Health Risks Faced by Overweight Cats

Your cat has a greatly increased risk of developing the following conditions if they become overweight: 

How To Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight

Inspect Your Cat's Waistline

When you look down at your cat from above, you should be able to see a slight indent where their waist should be, just above their hips. If your cat doesn't have a noticeable waist or protruding sides, she might be carrying a few extra pounds.

Feel for Your Cat's Ribs

If the weight of your cat is appropriate, you should be able to run your hand down their chest and feel their ribs. It's likely that your cat is overweight if you are unable to feel its ribs. 

Difficulties Jumping Up On To Furniture

Cats are graceful animals by nature, and they can jump very far. Your cat's weight may be making it more difficult if it takes them several tries to get up to their usual spot on the furniture or if they give up completely.

Overweight Cat Chart

Take a look at our chart below to get a better understanding of your cat's weight category, and whether your cat may or may not be overweight.

How to Get Your Feline Friend's Weight Back On-track

The nutritional needs of your cat, along with your cat's age, breed, and lifestyle all contribute to their weight and how to manage it. 

If you are concerned about your cat's weight then it might be time to book a wellness exam with your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to look over your cat and diagnose whether it is overweight.

If your vet recommends that your cat should lose some weight they will provide you with their recommendations on how to safely assist your cat with the necessary weight loss.

Often, a small meal size adjustment will help cats who are only marginally overweight reach a healthy weight.

In the cases where your cat needs to lose a significant amount of weight, it may be best to change to a specialized food that is formulated to help with feline weight loss.

Unexplained Weight Gain

Make an appointment with your Clarksville veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice a sudden increase in your cat's weight as it may indicate underlying health issues. Unexplained weight gain can be one of these symptoms.