Does your kitty need to shed a few pounds? Dr. Marshall from Trupanion provides the following advice on how to help your cat shed pounds and maintain a healthy weight.
#1 – Portion control starts with calorie counting
Talk to your veterinarian about your cat’s caloric needs and measure portions of food for your pet instead of free pouring or “eye-balling” it. Be sure that everyone in the family who feeds your pet uses the same measuring scoop!
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#2 – Cut back on snacking between meals
The calories in common treats for pets can really add up; they should only make up about 10% of your cat’s caloric intake. Cut up small pieces of fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, or bananas for yummy treats with fewer calories.
#3 – Swap for fruits and veggies
Use cat-safe fruits and veggies as treats and to supplement your pet’s smaller-portioned meals. Not only do they provide nutrition, they can also help your cat feel fuller without all of the calories.
#4 – Get into a routine
If you feed your cat at the same time every day, they will learn to expect food at that time and be less likely to beg for food throughout the day.
#5 – Don’t make quick, drastic changes
Gradually transition your cat to their diet food over one or two weeks by combining it with their current food.
#6 – Just because it’s diet food, doesn’t mean it can’t taste good
Try warming up food, adding oregano, mashed pumpkin or sweet potato, or a splash of a fish oil supplement, chicken broth, or salmon juice to make diet food more enticing.
#7 – Control cravings with distractions
When your cat begs for food, divert their attention to something else they enjoy, like playing with a ball or toy or simply enjoying some good old-fashioned TLC from their favorite person — you!
#8 – Don’t eat where you sleep
Place your cat’s food bowl far away from their favorite spot to lounge so they have to get up and move during the day.
#9 – Make them work for their food
There are several different toys that you can fill with kibble that make your cat put in a little effort for their meal. These toys keep them entertained and prevent them from gobbling up their dinner in record time.
#10 – Give your cat an active lifestyle.
Identify what toys your cats prefer, like a mouse toy that shakes and makes noise, a feather wand, or a crinkly paper ball, and give them plenty of interactive play time every day. Having something to stalk and pounce on will help them stay healthy and active.
