Cat Obesity: Health Risks, How to Judge Body Condition and What to Do
A chubby cat can look cute, but extra weight is one of the biggest health problems in pet cats. Studies suggest that around half of cats in many countries are overweight or obese. The good news is that gradual weight loss improves health and mobility, often within months.
What counts as overweight?
Vets use a body condition score, usually on a nine-point or five-point scale. In a nine-point scale, 4 to 5 is ideal. Cats scoring 6 to 7 are overweight, and 8 to 9 are obese. For many cats, an ideal weight is around 8 to 10 pounds, but that varies by breed and frame, so ask your vet for your cat's target weight.
How to check your cat at home
- Ribs. You should be able to feel them under a thin layer of fat, like the back of your hand. If you have to press, the cat is overweight.
- Waist. From above, you should see an hourglass shape behind the ribs.
- Belly. From the side, the belly should tuck up. A hanging belly pad is normal for some cats, but a swinging, bulging belly suggests excess fat.
- Spine and hips. They should be covered, but detectable.
- Movement. Overweight cats may be less able to groom, jump or play.
Weigh monthly. See cat weight loss causes for tracking tips.
Why cats become overweight
- Overfeeding, and free-feeding. See how much should I feed my cat.
- Calorie-dense diets, especially dry food and treats.
- Neutering, which lowers energy needs.
- Low activity, in indoor cats. See exercise for indoor cats.
- Boredom, and begging.
- Age.
- Medical causes, such as hypothyroidism, which is rare in cats.
- Multi-cat feeding problems, where one cat eats more.
Health risks
- Diabetes. Obesity makes cells resistant to insulin. See diabetes in cats.
- Arthritis, and reduced mobility. See arthritis in cats.
- Urinary disease, including cystitis and stones.
- Fatty liver disease, if an overweight cat stops eating. See hepatic lipidosis in cats.
- Heart disease and high blood pressure.
- Skin and grooming problems, because the cat cannot reach its back.
- Constipation.
- Anesthetic risks.
- A shorter life, by up to a couple of years in obese cats.
How to start
- See your vet to rule out medical causes, check baseline bloodwork and set a target weight.
- Measure the food. Use a gram scale or a measuring cup, not a guess.
- Choose a good diet. Many vets suggest a veterinary weight-management food or a higher-protein wet food.
- Cut treats, to about 10 percent of daily calories. See healthy cat treats.
- Increase play, and activity. See how to play with your cat.
- Use puzzle feeders. See puzzle feeders and slow feeders for cats.
- Weigh regularly, and adjust.
- Be patient.
Follow a full plan in how to help an overweight cat lose weight.
Safety
Never put a cat on a crash diet. Loss of more than about 2 percent of body weight per week, or fasting, risks hepatic lipidosis. If your cat stops eating, call the vet at once. See cat not eating: causes.
Multi-cat homes
Feed cats separately, with timed meals, or microchip feeders. See feeding cats in a multi-cat home.
Kittens
Prevent obesity early. See kitten feeding schedule.
Why obesity is hard to see
A fluffy coat hides body shape, and a cat that has gradually gained weight may look normal to the family. Many owners also compare their cat with others that are even heavier, which makes their own cat seem fine. This is why hands-on checks are better than a visual impression, and why a vet's opinion helps. Take a photo from above every month to track your cat's waist.
Obesity and inflammation
Fat tissue is active, and releases substances that promote inflammation and insulin resistance. That is one reason obese cats are more prone to diabetes, arthritis and even some cancers. The good news is that losing fat reduces these risks, and many cats with early diabetes can go into remission with weight loss. See diabetic cats: insulin, home monitoring and diet.
Grooming and hygiene problems
Obese cats often cannot reach their back or rear, and may have a greasy, matted coat, dandruff or urine scald. They may also have trouble using a litter box with high sides. Help by brushing regularly, wiping gently, and choosing a low-sided box. See how to brush a cat.
Realistic expectations
A plan may take six months to a year. Some cats complain at first, and may beg. Be firm and kind. Use play and attention instead of food. Celebrate progress with your vet. Keep the weight off with a long-term maintenance plan.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your cat is overweight, or gaining quickly. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my cat is overweight?
Ribs hard to feel, no waist and a swinging belly are signs.
What are the risks of obesity?
Diabetes, arthritis, urinary disease, skin problems and shorter life.
How fast should a cat lose weight?
About 0.5 to 2 percent of body weight a week, as advised by your vet.
Can I just cut food?
Not drastically. Severe cuts can cause fatty liver disease.
Sources and further reading
Health information changes as research does. These organizations publish guidance worth reading alongside our articles.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- CDC Healthy Pets, Healthy PeoplePublic-health advice on pets, zoonotic disease and safe handling.
- American Animal Hospital AssociationAccreditation body and practice guidelines for companion-animal hospitals.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.