Overweight cat — health risks and what to do
Overweight cats face diabetes, arthritis, and fatty liver risk — vet weight check and structured plan; never crash-diet a cat (hepatic lipidosis risk).
In the next 60 seconds
- Vet weight check.
- Structured slow weight loss — never crash-diet.
Recognise the signs
- Cannot easily feel ribs
- No waist
- Hanging belly pouch (some normal)
- Reduced jumping, grooming
First aid steps
- Vet weight check.
- Structured slow weight loss — never crash-diet.
Do NOT
- NEVER crash-diet a cat — hepatic lipidosis risk.
- Do not free-feed kibble.
- Do not use human appetite suppressants.
When to phone the vet immediately
- Suspected diabetes (drinking, urinating more)
- Severe obesity affecting mobility
Common causes
- Free-feeding dry food
- Indoor lifestyle
- Neutering without diet adjustment
- Multi-cat households where dominant cats overeat
What you'll need
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Slows eating and makes the cat work for food. Effective for cats who finish meals instantly and beg immediately after.
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Interactive wand toy (daily exercise)
Two 10-minute play sessions daily are the recommended exercise for overweight indoor cats. Wand toys encourage natural hunting movement.
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What the vet will need to know
- Current weight, ideal weight
- Diet, feeding pattern
- Other cats in household
Aftercare
- Slow weight loss — 1-2% per week maximum.
- Prescription weight loss diets often best.
- Measure food, multiple small meals.
- Puzzle feeders for indoor enrichment.
Prevention
- Measure portions.
- Wet food more filling and lower calorie.
- Adjust after neutering.
- Annual weight checks.
Breed-specific notes
- Easy weight gain: British Shorthair, Persian, Maine Coon, indoor cats of any breed.
Frequently asked questions
Why is crash-dieting dangerous?
Cats develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) from rapid weight loss or fasting. Slow controlled loss is essential.
How do I feed multiple cats different amounts?
Microchip-activated feeders work well. Or feed in separate rooms and supervise.
Are wet or dry foods better?
Wet food provides more water, often lower calorie density, more filling. Many vets recommend predominantly wet for weight management.
Vet-prescribed treatments delivered to your door
Prescription and over-the-counter treatments from a licensed UK veterinary pharmacy — flea, tick, worm, skin and wound care for dogs and cats.
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