How to Put Your Cat on a Diet: Measuring Portions, Choosing the Right Diet, and More

Introduction

Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world, but many pet owners struggle with their cats’ weight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 58 percent of cats in the United States are overweight or obese. If your cat is carrying extra pounds, it’s important to take action and put them on a diet. In this article, we’ll explore how to do just that.

Outline a Plan for Measuring and Tracking Food Intake

When it comes to putting your cat on a diet, the first step is to measure and track their food intake. This will help ensure your cat is getting the right amount of food every day. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends using a kitchen scale to weigh out daily portions. For example, if your cat needs 20 grams of wet food per day, you can use the scale to measure out the exact amount each morning.

Tracking your cat’s food intake also has other benefits. It can help you spot any changes in your cat’s eating habits, which could indicate an underlying health issue. According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, monitoring food intake can help detect early signs of illness in cats.

Choose an Appropriate Diet for Your Cat

Once you’ve established a plan for measuring and tracking food intake, it’s time to choose an appropriate diet for your cat. There are several factors to consider when selecting a diet, such as your cat’s age, activity level, and any health issues they may have. You should also consider their taste preferences and whether they prefer wet or dry food.

There are a variety of diets available for cats, including low-calorie, high-fiber, and grain-free options. Speak to your veterinarian about which type of diet would be best for your cat. They can also provide advice on portion sizes and recommend specific brands.

Identify and Avoid Unhealthy Treats

Treats can be a great way to reward your cat, but it’s important to choose healthy options. Many store-bought treats are packed with calories, sugar, and unhealthy fillers. Common examples include cheese, bacon, and fish-flavored treats. It’s best to avoid these altogether.

You can minimize unhealthy treats by stocking up on healthier options, such as low-calorie catnip, freeze-dried liver, and crunchy kibble. These will still satisfy your cat’s cravings without adding too many calories to their diet.

Make Healthy Swaps for Treats

If you’re looking for even healthier alternatives to store-bought treats, you can make your own. There are plenty of simple recipes online that use natural ingredients, such as cooked chicken, tuna, and salmon. You can also add in some grated vegetables, such as carrots and zucchini, for an extra nutritional boost.

Homemade treats are a great way to show your cat some love while sticking to their diet. Plus, they’re much cheaper than store-bought treats, so you can save money in the long run.

Monitor Your Cat’s Weight and Health Regularly

Finally, it’s important to keep an eye on your cat’s weight and health while they’re on a diet. A healthy weight for an adult cat is typically between 8 and 10 pounds, although this may vary depending on your cat’s breed and size. Check with your veterinarian to find out what’s normal for your cat.

It’s also important to monitor your cat’s overall health. Look out for any changes in behavior, such as excessive sleeping or drinking, which could indicate an underlying health issue. Regular visits to the vet can also help catch any potential problems early on.

Conclusion

Putting your cat on a diet doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. Start by measuring and tracking food intake, then select an appropriate diet and limit unhealthy treats. You can also make healthy swaps for treats, such as homemade recipes using natural ingredients. Finally, monitor your cat’s weight and health regularly to ensure they stay healthy and happy.