FELINES in FOCUS

                                                                                                                                 Xander, weighed in at nearly 17 lbs at adoption!

WE LOVE CATS!!                                                                           

Everyone that has ever owned or currently owns a cat knows how lovable and entertaining they can be.  We love that they are independent and free spirited one minute, and willing to cuddle the next.  Anyone with a personal relationship with cats also knows that cats love to

 eat.  I think their stomachs must be built like accordions, ever-expanding, with no little signal that goes to their brains to tell them they are full.

If you love your cat, and your cat loves to eat, then it’s possible your feline friend might be struggling with feline obesity. There is not a single client I have met that enjoys when we have to tell them their cat is obese.  Its one of those words, it just triggers bad feelings.  Unfortunately, a majority of this country's feline friends are facing the problem, and it is something that can easily be combated with a few lifestyle changes.

Here are a few simple steps to helping your cat fight the diet ups and downs:

Step 1: Accepting the Diagnosis

For you cat to jump on the yellow brick road of healthy weight, you have to accept that you have to make the changes necessary to make it happen, and accept that it needs to be done!

<-- Xander had a pooch, and was working on his problem!

Step 2: Evaluate your cat food and feeding strategies.

If you are feeding a healthy food, and limiting the supply of the food, you should speak to your veterinarian to get advice as to which weight loss diet might be best for your cat.

If you are feeding free choice, start simple.  Get an idea of how much a “bowl full” is for your cat.  If you cat is eating 1 cup, scale him back, if he is eating ¼ cup, then maybe your food choice is the issue.

Step 3: Dealing with a dieting cat. 

Often, when cats are on a weight loss plan, they feel hungry, and this is one of the main reasons I see clients stop the weight loss plan.  If this is the case with your fuzzy friend, try feeding several smaller meals throughout the day, or speak with your veterinarian about more filling diet options.  Your cat does not have to feel starved to achieve his weight loss goals.

Step 4: Weigh your cat often!

It is very hard to see the weight loss on a previously obese cat.  They will still have excess fluff, even if they are shedding pounds, and they lose in ounces, not pounds initially.  Weighing your cat can help you feel more satisfied with your weight loss plan, and keep you and your cat on track.  If regular weigh-ins show no improvement, then it's time to speak with your veterinarian for more individualized advice for your cat.

<--Now Xander feels much happier with his decision to shed a few pounds, and is more active and healthier than ever!

Next time on Feline Focus, Feeding a multiple cat household!