The important role of satiety for the health and weight of the cat

Worried that your cat is overweight? Some overweight pets can be very cute, but the problems with such cats are the same for everyone. The first thing you should do is consult with your veterinarian and find out if the weight gain is due to hidden causes. Maybe the cat just eats too much, and spends very few calories.

If the examination reveals no cause, it may be worth considering eliminating daily treats for the cat. Her food may not make her feel full, causing her to beg for snacks between feedings. And a balanced diet that focuses on satisfying hunger can help you manage your cat’s weight and keep her feeling full between meals.

Why weight matters

Just like humans, more and more cats are gaining weight. A study by the Pet Obesity Prevention Association found that about 58 percent of cats fell into the overweight category just two years ago. Excess weight that a cat gains can cause health problems, just like in the case of its owners. Obese cats are more susceptible to long-term chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis, according to PetMD. And although the chubby tummy of a pet is a pretty cute sight, a healthy weight is much better for her.

Protein vs Carbohydrates

The best food for weight loss is one that gives your cat a feeling of fullness between feedings. Foods with a high protein content keep your cat satiated for a long time, provide energy for play and help in weight loss. But they need to be fed within reasonable limits. Protein is one of the nutrients that an animal needs in its diet in order to feel healthy and happy.

The feeling of satiety is very important because it keeps the cat from begging for food between feedings, even though you can meet her halfway. If your pet feels full and satisfied, she will be less likely to demand food from you outside of her usual meal times. This will make feeding control easier and your time with her more enjoyable.

Keep in mind that carbohydrates are an important part of the diet when bringing a cat down to weight, but the reason they should be low on the priority list is that these substances do not make you feel full for a long time. According to Texas A&M University, carbohydrates in the intestinal tract of cats cannot be digested in the same way as proteins to build muscle, and due to the lack of muscle mass, cats may beg for food.

What to feed

There are many healthy food options for the owner who wants to help their cat feel full while losing weight. On the shelves, look for food formulated by nutritionists and veterinarians specifically to normalize the weight of the animal – food with added fiber from fruits and vegetables, as well as antioxidants that protect the body’s cells and maintain a healthy weight. There are many options to keep your cat’s weight under control: some foods are designed for older cats and are formulated to avoid excessive calorie intake while still providing your cat with all the nutrients it needs to maintain healthy joints, bones and general well-being.

With a huge selection of foods, you can get confused, so check with your veterinarian to get his opinion on this issue. He understands the needs of cats better and will help you choose the most suitable food. In addition, you can use special tools, such as a 10-week schedule, to track the progress your pet has made.

Find time to exercise

Of course, when it comes to your cat’s weight, food selection isn’t the only issue. Animals need exercise just as much as their beloved two-legged owners. The modern domestic cat does not walk for as long as it takes to burn off all the calories it consumes. Along with proper feeding that will make your cat feel good, make sure to make time every day to play together. You can find inspiration in the simplest ideas that will make your pet move actively.

Proper feeding and daily exercise will quickly make your overweight cat a model of health and vitality. She will look and feel better – and she will be grateful to you for it. Your cat needs your help to maintain a healthy weight, and you need to be consistent in creating and implementing an action plan together.