Welcome

Tag: fat cat

  • The Secret to Slowing Down Fast-Eating Cats

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you’ve ever noticed your cat gobbling down their food in seconds, you’re not alone. While it might seem cute or funny at first, fast eating can actually cause some real issues—like vomiting, indigestion, or even obesity. Cats who eat too quickly often don’t give their bodies enough time to signal fullness, which can lead to overeating and discomfort.

    That’s where slow feeders for cats come to the rescue. These specially designed bowls have ridges, bumps, or mazes that make your cat work a little harder for each bite. This naturally slows down their eating pace, turning mealtime from a quick gulp into a more relaxed and engaging experience.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Using a slow feeder can help your cat digest better and avoid common tummy troubles like throwing up after meals. It also encourages healthier eating habits, which can support weight management and overall well-being. Plus, some slow feeders double as puzzle feeders, providing mental stimulation that keeps curious cats entertained during mealtime.

    Most slow feeders are made with safe, durable materials that are easy to clean—an important bonus for busy cat parents. They come in a variety of fun shapes and sizes, so you can find one that suits your cat’s personality and eating style.

    If your cat tends to eat too fast or gets stressed during meals, a slow feeder might be just what you need to create a calmer, healthier feeding routine. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference in your cat’s comfort and happiness.

    Give your kitty the gift of slower, smarter eating—it’s a win for both of you!

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Helping Lazy Cats Lose Weight: What Actually Works

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    We all love a fluffy cat—but when “fluffy” turns into “my vet said he’s obese,” it’s time for a reality check. It happens. One day, your cat is all soft and squishy in a cute way… and the next, he or she is struggling to jump onto the couch and getting winded chasing a toy for 30 seconds. Extra weight on cats isn’t just cosmetic—it can lead to joint pain, diabetes, and a shorter lifespan. But here’s the good news: you can help your cat slim down without turning your home into a kitty boot camp.

    The first thing you can easily change is feeding. Many owners free-feed and fill the bowl constantly. Guess what, your cat is going to eat ALL day long!

    Your best bet is to use a timed feeder that dispenses small meals throughout the day. It helps control portions without leaving her hungry or begging at 5 a.m. You can set it and forget it, and your cat still feels like they’re getting regular meals.

    Product Available on Amazon

    To slow things down and add a little mental stimulation, you may even want to try a puzzle feeder. It turns mealtime into a game, encouraging your cat to “hunt” for her food. This not only slows her eating, but also keeps her brain engaged. Bonus: she’s a little less bored (and less likely to knock stuff off counters out of spite).

    Product Available on Amazon

    Of course, food’s only half the story. Movement matters, even for indoor cats. You should start with 5-minute play sessions, once or twice a day, using a wand toy and a low-speed laser toy. She didn’t exactly do backflips, but it got her up and stretching, swatting, and moving her body again—which was a win in itself.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Helping a cat lose weight is definitely a slow and steady kind of journey. But with a few small changes—better feeding routines, a bit more play, and the right tools—you can absolutely help your kitty feel better, move easier, and stay healthier long term. Plus, you’ll probably enjoy watching them rediscover a little kitten-like spark along the way.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Should I Be Concerned About My Overweight Cat?

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though many people love to see cats that are a bit heavier than they should be, the truth is that even a few extra ounces can affect your cat’s health. Just like overweight people, they are more likely to have health problems.

    So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight cats?

    Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from the following:

    • Diabetes
    • Pain in the joints, which can turn into Arthritis as your cat ages
    • Urinary tract infections
    • Skin problems since they can’t groom themselves as easily as they used to be able to.

    So, how can you tell if your cat is overweight?

    Here are some signs that your cat may be overweight.

    Your cat’s silhouette. 

    When your cat is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.

    You can feel your cat’s ribs. 

    You will want to be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your cat needs to lose some weight.

    If your cat is overweight, he or she won’t be as active. 

    Though your cat may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that your cat should have plenty of energy. You may also notice that your cat is unable to jump up the way that he or she used to. It may take your cat a few tries to get up on the furniture, or he or she may not be able to get up at all!

    So, what can you do to help your cat lose weight?

    Taking your cat to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your cat should weigh, as well as rule out any problems that may be the reason why your cat weighs more than he or she should.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here. 

    ***

    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.