How Can I Tell If My Cat Is Overweight?

Cats are curious, playful, and endlessly entertaining companions, but like us, they can face challenges with weight management. An overweight cat is at higher risk of health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Identifying whether your cat is overweight is an important step in ensuring their long-term health and happiness. In this article, we will explore the signs of feline obesity, how to assess your cat’s weight, and what steps you can take to maintain their ideal weight.

Understanding a Healthy Weight for Cats

The ideal weight for a cat depends on its breed, age, and overall build. Rather than relying solely on numbers, veterinarians use the Body Condition Score (BCS) to evaluate a cat’s weight.

The BCS is a visual and physical assessment scored on a scale of 1 to 9:

• 1–3: Underweight
• 4–5: Ideal weight
• 6–9: Overweight or obese

Using the BCS allows for a more nuanced assessment than weight alone, considering your cat’s body shape, fat coverage, and muscle mass. Speak to your vet if you're unsure how to use the BCS or need guidance.

Signs Your Cat Might Be Overweight

If you suspect your cat is overweight, look for these key indicators:

1. Difficulty Feeling the Ribs
Place your hands gently on either side of your cat’s chest. You should feel their ribs with a light touch, similar to running your fingers over the back of your hand. If the ribs are hard to feel under a thick layer of fat, your cat may be overweight.

2. Lack of a Visible Waist
When viewed from above, a healthy cat should have a defined waistline just behind the ribs. If your cat’s body appears oval or round from above, they might be carrying excess weight.

3. Sagging Belly or 'Fat Pouch'
A sagging belly, sometimes referred to as a 'fat pad', can indicate feline obesity. While most cats have a primordial pouch (a loose flap of skin along the belly), excessive fat in this area typically indicates an unhealthy weight. 

4. Reduced Mobility
Overweight cats may struggle to jump, climb, or engage in play. If your cat seems less agile than usual, their weight might be affecting their ability to move comfortably.

5. Heavy Breathing 
Healthy cats breathe quietly and effortlessly. Overweight cats may breathe heavily after minimal exertion due to excess weight placing strain on their respiratory system.

6. Difficulty Grooming
Cats are meticulous groomers, but an overweight cat might find it hard to clean certain areas, especially around the back and tail. This can result in unkempt fur or skin problems in those areas.

Why Maintaining a Healthy Weight Is Important

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s critical for their overall wellbeing. Excess weight can lead to:

• Diabetes mellitus: Obesity increases the risk of diabetes by reducing insulin sensitivity.
• Arthritis: Extra weight puts stress on joints, causing pain and reducing mobility.
• Heart and respiratory issues: Excess fat can strain the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
• Urinary tract issues: Overweight cats are more prone to infections and bladder stones.
• Reduced lifespan: Obesity has been linked to shorter lifespans in cats.

Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight not only reduces these risks but also improves their quality of life and activity levels.

How to Check Your Cat’s Weight at Home

Here are simple ways to assess your cat’s weight:

1. Perform a Visual Check
   Observe your cat’s body shape from above and on the side. A round or barrel-shaped body suggests they may be overweight, while a healthy cat will have a visible waistline.
2. Feel for Fat Deposits
   Run your hands along your cat’s ribs, spine, and base of the tail. You should feel a thin layer of fat without difficulty feeling the bones beneath.
3. Weigh Your Cat
   Use a digital scale to track your cat’s weight regularly. If you don’t have a pet scale, weigh yourself on a bathroom scale, then weigh yourself again while holding your cat, and subtract your weight from the combined total. Regular weigh-ins can help monitor changes over time.

Steps to Help Your Cat Achieve a Healthy Weight

If you’ve determined that your cat might be overweight, take action with these steps:

1. Consult Your Vet
   Visit your veterinarian for a check-up before making changes to your cat’s diet or exercise routine. They can assess your cat’s overall health, rule out underlying conditions and recommend a tailored weight-loss plan.
2. Adjust Their Diet
   Overfeeding is one of the main causes of feline obesity. Make these changes:
   • Portion Control: Measure your cat’s food and avoid free-feeding (leaving food out all day).
   • Balanced Diet: Feed a high-quality diet suited to your cat’s age, activity level, and health needs.
   • Limit Treats: Treats should comprise no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
3. Encourage Regular Exercise
   Interactive play can help your cat burn calories and stay mentally stimulated:
   • Use toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or motorised mice to mimic prey behaviour. 
   • Dedicate 10–15 minutes twice a day to active play sessions.
4. Provide Opportunities for Activity
   Set up climbing shelves, scratching posts, and cat trees to encourage movement. Puzzle feeders can also keep your cat mentally engaged while promoting activity.
5. Monitor Progress
   Weigh your cat regularly and track changes in their BCS. Safe weight loss occurs gradually, at a rate of 0.5–2% of body weight per week. Rapid weight loss can be dangerous and may lead to hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease). Consult your vet for the rate of weight loss ideal for your cat as it can depend on their age, breed and overall health. 

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

If your cat’s weight doesn’t improve despite dietary and lifestyle changes, or if you notice symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or changes in appetite, consult your vet immediately. These could indicate underlying conditions that require treatment.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important ways to ensure your cat lives a long, happy life. By staying proactive and addressing weight issues early, you can prevent serious health problems and help your cat thrive. If you have concerns about your cat’s weight, don’t hesitate to contact your vet for professional guidance. A healthy, active cat is a happier cat, and your efforts to manage their weight will pay off in countless ways.