Obesity in cats: symptoms
In the previous article “» we talked about the causes and treatment of the disease. In it, we noted that obesity develops gradually: from insignificant weight gain to a real threat to health. It is very important to notice in time that the contours of the pet began to “blur” in order to quickly adjust the diet and prevent the development of the problem. But how to do that? What are the signs of being overweight?
Surprisingly, many owners are not even aware that their pets are overweight.
A well-fed cat can look cute, and her increased interest in food is easily attributed to personal qualities: “Yes, he just loves to eat!”. But, unfortunately, sooner or later, excess weight will definitely declare itself from the negative side – and, probably, in a categorical form. You need to know what signs indicate overweight in order to adjust the diet in time and return your pet to an ideal physical shape!
If you run this question, “minor” excess weight will turn into already significant obesity. And with it, a huge number of problems, which will be more difficult to cope with.
- Ribs are not palpable.
Normally, the contours of the ribs of a cat are easy to feel. If you find it difficult to do this, be sure that the pet’s weight exceeds the norm. The more excess weight, the more difficult the ribs are felt. And one more hint: in a cat with a normal weight, when it lies on its side, the ribs stand out somewhat, while in an overweight cat, the border between the ribs and the abdomen is practically not noticeable.
- You can’t see how the cat breathes.
With excess weight, the respiratory movements of a cat are visually almost invisible. Normally, if the cat lies on its side, each inhalation and exhalation is easily tracked.
- Waddling gait.
If your cat is not pregnant, not sick, but walks “like a duck”, waddling from paw to paw, then she is overweight. And it doesn’t matter if such a feature seems to you an alternative to the “moonwalk” – you need to fight excess weight!
Here are three main signs that will help determine if it’s time for a pet to diet.
Be sure to check with your veterinarian before changing your diet for helpful advice.
We wish that the figure of your cat always remains exemplary!