Cat Weight Loss Program:
In 90% of all cases, obesity results from overeating and NOT a lack of exercise, lowered
metabolism or hormonal imbalances. The good news is, therefore, that the disease of obesity is
treatable, since you have complete control over how much food your cat eats. When viewed from
above, your cat should have a visible waist. You should be able to easily feel his ribs, but not see
them. Your cat should not have a dangling abdomen.
CATS MUST CONTINUE TO EAT: Starvation diets or simply overly restricting food volume in
cats may result in an often fatal liver disease, hepatic lipidosis. This condition results from
an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver. Overweight cats are more susceptible because
of the excess fat accumulation in their bodies. Whenever the cat takes in less calories than
are needed to maintain normal body functions, body fat is mobilized, enters the bloodstream,
and becomes deposited in the liver, resulting in hepatic lipidosis.
Problems associated with obesity:
Arthritis
Torn or stretched ligaments
Heart problems
Asthma/problems breathing
Liver disease
Diabetes
Skin problems
Constipation/excessive gas
Lowered resistance to disease
Anal gland impaction and infection
Increased risk of cancer (extrapolated from
human studies)
Body Condition Score _____________
Current Diet
______________________________
Recommended Diet ______________________________
BCS
1
2
3
4
5
5 Point System
Very Thin
Underweight
Ideal
Overweight
Obese
WEIGHT LOSS CALCULATIONS:
Present Weight x 85% = Target Weight
_________
Present Weight x 3% = Maximum Weekly Loss
_________
Amount Currently Fed/Day x 60-70% = Amount of Current Diet to be Fed _________
40 x Body Weight in Kgs. = Resting Energy Requirement (RER) in kcal
_________
70% x RER divided by Calorie Content/Cup or Can of Diet to be Fed =
Amount of Diet to be Fed Based on RER
_________
Tips for Success:
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Split your cat’s daily ration into small, multiple meals if possible.
Feed your overweight cat in a different location, so that he/she eats the prescription diet,
while denying access to other pets’ food(s).
For the sake of your cat’s health, no table scraps or milk please. It is not the snack your cat
craves so much as your loving attention.