Objectionable Obesity : The Silent Epidemic In Cats

Obesity means excessive deposition of adipose tissue in the body. For humans, BMR (basal metabolic rate) is the criterion for determining excessive deposition of adipose in the body. Cats and dogs as considered overweight if their body weight is more than 15 % of their optimal body weight and obese if it exceeds 30%.

How to know if your cat is obese?

The easiest way to determine is through the nine-point body condition score system.

Nine lives, one health – Combating obesity in cats

• Obesity in cats is a big problem because it can make them more likely to die early and get sick from diseases like diabetes, skin problems, and liver disease.
• It makes it harder for vets to check them because they might be too big. Things like palpation, thoracic auscultation, and doing tests like ultrasounds and blood tests became difficult for vets for obese cats.
• Cats often get type 2 diabetes from being obese. Their bodies don’t use insulin properly when they gain weight.
• Cats who are overweight have a higher chance of having problems with anaesthesia during surgery. This is because it’s hard to know how much anaesthesia they need, and where to put tubes, and their surgery might take longer than usual.
• Fat around their reproductive organs can cause problems with having babies.
• Obese cats can have skin problems because they can’t clean themselves properly.
• Being overweight can lead to bone and joint problems in cats, making them more likely to get hurt or have arthritis.

Breeds at a higher risk

• Domestic short, medium, and long hair cats
• Persian
• Manx
• British short hair
• Norwegian forest cat

Kitty Kilos – Understanding the what and why?

The regulation of food intake and body weight is an intricate process that requires a delicate balance between long-term control of fat mass, which involves signals from insulin, adrenal steroids, and leptin to the central nervous system, and short-term signals related to meals. Cats usually regulate their food intake to match their energy needs, but sometimes they can’t do it, possibly due to leptin resistance.

Diseases like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) and insulinoma (insulin-secreting tumour) can cause weight gain in cats. Long-term use of certain medications can also increase appetite and lead to weight gain. Lack of exercise, too much sleep, and indoor confinement can make cats more likely to become obese.

Neutering your feline friend can also cause weight gain, especially in males, due to changes in behaviour and metabolism. Older cats, especially between six and eight years old, are more prone to obesity.

From purrs to pounds – Managing your cat’s weight effectively

• Vet check-up: Before starting any weight loss plan, make sure to consult your vet to rule out any medical issues and to get a customized weight loss plan for your cat.
• Know their score: Find out your cat’s Body Condition Score (BCS) and weight to set realistic goals for her weight loss journey.
• Realistic weight loss plan: Gradually reduce calorie intake over time based on your vet’s advice to ensure safe weight loss. Avoid overfeeding or underfeeding, which can harm your pet’s health.
• Balanced diet: Opt for high-protein, low-fat foods with added fibre to keep her full without giving excess calories.
• Special ingredients: Your vet may suggest d L-carnitine or fish oil supplements to aid weight loss and maintain muscle mass.
• Feeding routine: Offer smaller, more frequent meals to curb begging habits and keep her satiated.
• Interactive feeding: Use hunter-feeders or food puzzles to engage your pet’s natural hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation.
• Regular exercise: Schedule two 15-minute play sessions daily to keep your feline friend active and healthy.
• Monthly vet check-up: Monitor your pet’s weight monthly and adjust her diet and exercise accordingly to maintain a healthy weight according to your vet’s advice.

Weight loss can be a slow process. But it is important to lead a happy and healthy life. Start today with small lifestyle modifications and the practice of giving a balanced diet to your pet, and you’ll start seeing changes!

Dr. Dishant Saini, P.H.D (Surgery and Radiology); Dr.Rutuja Sawant M.V.Sc (Surgery and Radiology); Dr.G.S.Khandekar, Professor and head department of surgery and radiology Mumbai veterinary College; Dr.Harshal Patil M.V.Sc (Surgery and Radiology)