If your cat is underweight or overweight

Being over- or underweight is detrimental to your cat's health. How do you prevent this? And what should you do if your cat is too light or too heavy?

What is the danger of over- or underweight for a cat?

Over- or underweight is unhealthy for your cat. Being overweight puts her at greater risk of all sorts of health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. In addition, every extra kilo puts extra strain on her legs.

Underweight in your cat causes problems with the organs, among other things. A cat that is too light also has difficulty maintaining its body temperature.

Both over- and underweight can be fatal for your pet if you do not address them.

What is a healthy weight for my cat?

What a healthy weight is for your cat depends on its breed and size. In addition to its exact weight, you can also tell from looking at your cat whether it is too heavy or too light. In a cat with a healthy weight, you can feel its ribs. Do your cat's ribs really stand out and does it have virtually no fat tissue between its skin and bones? Then it is too light. A thick, hanging belly and ribs you cannot feel through a layer of fat indicate overweight.

What causes overweight in a cat?

Most cats are overweight because they eat too much and get too little exercise. This is especially seen in cats that stay indoors a lot. Some cats also have a predisposition to overweight, causing them to gain weight faster than their counterparts:

Breed: some breeds are more susceptible to overweight.
Age: older cats use less energy.
Neutering: A neutered cat needs less energy than an unneutered cat, but often tends to eat more.
Illnesses: for example kidney problems or thyroid conditions. An underactive thyroid increases the risk of overweight.

Visit the vet if your cat is overweight so it can lose weight under supervision. If medical causes are ruled out, your cat will receive special diet food. If you simply give less of her regular food, she will be deficient in nutrients.

Encourage your cat to move more by playing with her more often. Bouncy balls or toys she can chase work very well.

How do I prevent overweight in my cat?

These tips help prevent your cat from becoming overweight:

Follow the feeding recommendations on the packaging or consult your vet.
Give cat treats in moderation.
Make sure your cat gets enough exercise.
Play with your cat regularly.

Some cats move less due to an illness or condition. In that case, ask your vet for advice on adjusting your cat's daily portions.

What causes underweight in a cat?

Various causes can lead to a cat being too light:

Insufficient food: check the packaging for feeding advice.
Poor quality food: this means your cat is not getting enough nutrients.
Reduced appetite: dental problems or illness.
Unusually high energy consumption: this may indicate a health problem.

If your pet is too light, check whether you are giving enough food, consider a different diet, and have your vet investigate medical causes. Whether or not the vet finds a medical cause, they will regularly check a cat that is too light. This way they keep an eye on whether the animal is eating enough and can intervene immediately if not. Tip: Deworm your cat regularly, preferably four times a year. Worms also cause underweight.

How do I prevent underweight in my cat?

Underweight is sometimes caused by illness and is not always preventable. In any case, choose high-quality cat food tailored to your cat's life stage.

Good dental care is also important. Have tartar removed from your cat regularly and brush its teeth. Poor teeth cause pain and discomfort and make the cat reluctant to eat.

What should I do if my cat is too heavy or too light?

For both over- and underweight, it is best to ask the vet for advice. The vet must first check whether there is a medical cause for the weight problem. Because weight problems pose a health risk for your pet, the vet will regularly check its weight and adjust food portions if necessary.

For overweight cats there is special light food that provides a feeling of fullness so they do not have to be constantly hungry. It is also wise to give your cat more exercise.

If your cat is too light, reconsider its diet. Are you giving it enough? Are you sure it is good quality food? For advice, you can visit your local store.