Is gaining over 2 lbs in a 5 month period alright for an adult cat?
She was only at the SPCA for 2 weeks. Can't be sure of her circumstances before that. She was brought in as a "found outside" cat, but I believe she was a house cat, her coat was too nice to be an outdoor cat.
She is fed a high quality diet. When you feel her belly, she doesn't seem to have droopy fat hanging down or anything.
2007-03-08 01:28:23 · 10 answers · asked by hello 6 in Pets ➔ Cats
She's a long-haired siamese/persian mix.
2007-03-08 01:47:19 · update #1
She is definitely a happier cat. Most times when people get cats that are already a few years old they are a tad fussy. New home, new owner, new surroundings and all -- but you seem to have gotten lucky. I got a new cat once that was almost 6, it came from a bad home but it was too far gone and nothing I could do for it, I think he died of being so badly gone.
2 and a half pounds in 5 months isnt really bad just be sure you are playing with her and making her be active.
2007-03-08 03:27:19 · answer #1 · answered by Just my opinion. 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hi!
It is said that your cats ideal weight was their weight at 1yr old (unless they were overweight/obese at that time too)
But your cat gaining 2 lbs in just a matter of 5 months is relatively substantial. Think of yourself gaining 25% of your body weight in that amount of time.
Its difficult to judge the proper weight of a cat because, like people it can differ from animal to animal, but generally a cat 10lbs is generally concieved as overweight and heading towards obesity. Also, overweight cats can lead to bone problems because their bodies will be unable to support the weight so its important to check for it.
From my experience and what Ive been told, there are a number of ways...
* You should be able to easily feel your cats ribs, but not see them sticking out. This indicates that your cat is at a desirable weight.
* Look at your cat from above. Some indentation between the rib cage and the hips (that classic hourglass figure) indicates that your cat is at a desirable weight.
* Check your cats belly. If the belly protrudes, the cat may be overweight. (A protruding belly on a cat is called an apron.)
* Feel your cats hips. Anything more than light fleshiness indicates that your cat is above normal weight.
* Always consult a veterinarian before putting a cat on a diet. Your veterinarian can recommend the right diet for your cat, and can examine your pet to rule out the possibility that a serious medical condition is causing the obesity.
Obesity can lead to hepatic lipidosis (a fatty liver), diabetes, arthritis and other serious medical problems so its a good thing youre keeping this in mind already.
Good luck!
2007-03-08 10:51:16 · answer #2 · answered by G L 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may be overfeeding her. Try to cut down on what she eats. It is better to feed her dry food, as some soft can foods will irritate their bowels. You should feed her at least 3 times a day, but only a 1 1/2 cups to 1 cup per feeding only. Also, check with your vet and see if she needs to diet and what types of food will be good for her. Also, has she been checked for worms? If a cat has worms, they usually start to bloat as if gaining weight. Ask your vet to do a sample test.
2007-03-08 10:57:25 · answer #3 · answered by Çåŗőľîņẫ§ħŷġĭ®ł 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
weight is a issue for older cats like vet teck said low calorie food check with your vet to set up nutritional diet for beloved family member. If she gets much heavier can cause problems with her joints and back. buy more toys to help promote ply time dont let her/jim become too lazy not good for cats especially male as they are prone to kidney and urinary stones
2007-03-08 09:50:24 · answer #4 · answered by Amanda D 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
thats too fast weight gain in too short a time.pls visit your vet to find out more on your cat's health
2007-03-08 10:07:12 · answer #5 · answered by Marie Q 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i wouldn't let her gain any more wt.cut back on some food or increase her activity, also try some low calorie food, this will stabilize her wt, follow directions on the bag!
2007-03-08 09:43:08 · answer #6 · answered by kat_luvr2003 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know this personally but I have been told that overweight cats can get diabetes. PS , my cat is 20LBS.
2007-03-08 10:24:28 · answer #7 · answered by Wayne 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your vet is the only person who can tell you if she is a healthy weight.
2007-03-08 09:42:47 · answer #8 · answered by KathyS 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
sure she is lovely and happy cat good luck
I'm ASPCA volunteer i hope see so many kitty like your thanks
2007-03-08 09:45:01 · answer #9 · answered by lovepets 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
definitely it's not healthy
2007-03-08 09:39:51 · answer #10 · answered by plutonas2000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋