Constipation in Cats

763-689-0095

Cambridge VetCare Animal Clinic
Cambridge, MN

Clinic Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday - 8am - 12pm
Sunday - Closed

Obesity

Yes - obesity, defined as an excess of body weight of 20% or more, is the most common nutritional disease
of domestic cats. Although the frequency varies from one country to the next, on average up to 40% of all
adult cats are obese! Despite these alarming figures, very little is known about the detrimental effects of
obesity on feline health. Obesity in cats is a known risk factor for both diabetes mellitus and lower urinary
tract disease. In humans, obesity causes an increase in morbidity and mortality at all ages and is associated
with diabetes mellitus, certain types of cancer, impaired mobility and arthritis, high blood pressure, heart
disease, and other illnesses. Recent studies suggest that heart disease also occurs in obese cats! More
research is needed to evaluate this and to determine what other detrimental effects obesity has on cats.

Finally, obesity in cats is associated with hepatic lipidosis. This is a severe form of liver failure in cats. It
typically occurs in cats that are obese and have undergone a brief period of “stress” which causes anorexia.
The “stress” may be as simple as a change of house or a change in diet. Hepatic lipidosis previously was an
almost universally fatal disease in cats. Fortunately, with improved, aggressive and prolonged therapy about
80% of affected cats can now be successfully treated. However, because of the risk for this potentially fatal
disease, the treatment of feline obesity needs to be done cautiously and always under the care of a
veterinarian.

What causes obesity in cats and how should it be treated?

Many factors contribute to obesity in cats, and not all of them are clearly understood. Some are probably
genetic, while others are clearly related to diet and environment. It is important for the cat owner and
veterinarian to keep these factors in mind when treating the obese feline patient. Prevention is better than
treatment, but this is not always easy. Indoor cats are more prone to obesity, perhaps because they eat more
out of boredom, but also because they have less opportunity to stay trim through exercise. Remember that
everybody should run and play, including cats!

Once a cat becomes obese, the challenge for owner and veterinarian is to safely promote weight loss and
maintain optimum weight. In the long run it is better to set realistic goals for weight reduction rather than
attempting to force the cat down to a “normal” weight. Usually a 15-20% reduction in weight is a good target
that can easily be achieved! Rapid weight loss should be avoided, since it puts the cat at risk for
development of severe liver disease. Weight that is lost slowly is more likely to stay lost! There are no drugs
or magic pills that can be used safely or effectively. Commercial “low-calorie” diets are available from
veterinarians and provide the basis for a successful weight loss program. However, they are more effective
when combined with additional exercise. This also has the advantage of providing more time for interaction
between the cat and the family, which we know provides enjoyment and is beneficial for the health of both.
With some patience and extra care, obese cats can be treated safely and effectively, with the ultimate goal of
prolonging a healthy happy life!