Obesity
Also called: Overweight
- Cats
- Weight & metabolism
- Adult
Obesity is excess body fat, and one of the most common preventable health problems in cats. A cat is generally considered overweight at 10–20% above ideal weight and obese above 20%. Excess weight is itself a disease and increases the risk of diabetes, arthritis, and urinary disease, and can shorten lifespan.
Signs to look for
- Difficulty feeling the ribs under a layer of fat
- Loss of a visible waist when viewed from above
- A rounded, sagging abdomen
- Reduced activity, reluctance to play or jump
- Difficulty grooming
How a vet diagnoses it
Weighing the cat and assigning a Body Condition Score (BCS) combined with a hands-on assessment of ribs, waist, and fat deposits, plus a Muscle Condition Score.
Treatment
A vet-supervised weight-loss plan using a calorie-controlled therapeutic diet, measured portions, and increased activity. Weight loss must be gradual — rapid weight loss can trigger life-threatening hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver).
Monitoring at home
Body weight and BCS at regular intervals, targeting roughly 0.5–1% of body weight loss per week.
Who tends to get it
Middle-aged cats (around 2–10 years) are most at risk; neutered, indoor, and inactive cats are predisposed.
This library is educational reference only. It is designed to help you learn about health conditions your pet may have been diagnosed with — it does not interpret your pet's symptoms, cannot diagnose, and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Cats and dogs often hide illness well, so signs can be subtle. Any new, persistent, or worsening sign warrants a vet visit.