4 steps for your cat’s ideal weight

How to know your cat’s ideal weight and maintain it throughout her life.

1. Keep track of your cat’s weight. Losing weight can make your cat healthier, but weight loss should be gradual and controlled. To make sure your pet is losing weight at a normal pace, weigh her regularly and have her body assessed. Most veterinary clinics have scales that are free to use, but you can also use your own scale by weighing your cat in your arms and then subtracting your own weight.
2. Add healthy activity. If you’re feeding your cat Hill’s Science Plan or Prescription Diet, you know she’s eating right. However, a cat’s weight management program is not complete without healthy exercise. Make sure your pet gets enough physical activity she needs to stay healthy.
3. Visit your veterinarian regularly. Visit your veterinarian regularly to make sure your pet’s weight management program is going well. Your veterinarian knows what your cat’s ideal weight should be, at what rate she should lose weight, and what foods are best for each stage of the weight management plan.
4. Maintain your ideal weight for the rest of your life. Your cat’s weight management plan should not be temporary. Once she reaches her ideal weight, move on to a weight maintenance plan that includes regular exercise and proper nutrition.

Your cat may gain or lose weight more easily than others. Breed, age, dietary choices, health status, and a host of other factors can influence how quickly an animal gains weight and what nutrition it needs to keep it under control. If you think your pet needs a weight management program, talk to your veterinarian about this.