Cats Should Not Be Overfed

To many cat owners, their cats are fragile little beings who require extra care, even when it comes to simple things like brushing their fur. However, for new cat owners, excessive attention can sometimes lead to overfeeding without realizing it.
Today, I'd like to talk about obesity in cats from the perspective of feeding habits. More Food Doesn’t Mean Better for Cats Many new cat owners make the mistake of feeding their cats large amounts of so-called high-nutrient food, unintentionally turning their little kittens into "chubby" cats. At first glance, the round body of the cat might seem adorable, and brushing or petting it might feel pleasant. However, the more food they are given, the larger their appetite becomes. If the cat is unable to burn off the excess nutrients, it starts accumulating fat in its body, resulting in unnecessary weight gain. Frequent feeding of treats, freeze-dried food, or similar items can encourage picky eating habits in cats, which leads to health issues like obesity at a young age. Some cats end up struggling with weight-related diseases far too early in life. Some new cat owners might think that regular brushing and exercise can help their cat lose weight, but in reality, gaining weight is much easier than losing it. What's even more concerning is that some owners don't pay attention to maintaining a balanced diet for their cat. What appears to be a "fat" cat might actually be malnourished, needing additional nutrients to stay healthy. Obesity and Its Risks for Cats One common problem that arises from obesity in cats is diabetes, especially since excess weight can disrupt insulin secretion in their bodies. Aside from a few genetic factors, obesity is usually the main cause. Much like humans, cats that are overweight are prone to physical issues. They may experience decreased mobility and increased pressure on their heart and lungs. Cats that are overfed and obese often develop heart or lung issues, chronic coughing, and in severe cases, pulmonary edema that can lead to death. As cats grow older, their life expectancy decreases if they are obese. After the age of 6, obesity-related diseases often begin to appear, which is an extremely painful process for the cat and a heartbreaking one for the owner. So, in addition to regular grooming, cat owners should make sure to get their cats moving and exercising to keep them healthy and avoid obesity!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Help Your Cat Get Used to a Carrier

Image
Choose the Right Carrier for Your Cat The carrier doesn’t need to be overly large, but it should be spacious enough for your cat to stand and turn around comfortably, giving them a sense of security. Since cats have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell and a strong attachment to their territory, it’s important not to use a carrier that has been used by other cats. The mixed scents could cause anxiety for your cat. Always choose a clean carrier with a familiar scent. Make the Carrier a Part of Daily Life Introduce the carrier as an everyday item, much like a cat bed. Instead of using it only for trips, make it a part of your cat’s daily environment. Place it in an area your cat enjoys spending time in, allowing them to enter and exit freely. This way, when you need to use the carrier for travel, your cat will be less anxious about it, as it will already feel like a familiar space. Improve Negative Associations If your cat already has negative associations with the carrier, you c...
Read more

Do you really understand the importance of a dog leash?

Image
The necessity of using a leash when walking dogs has been a focal point for many pet owners and passersby. A pet without a proper leash can pose risks to itself, others, and the environment. Today, let’s delve into the negative impacts of having a pet dog without an appropriate leash. The Biggest Risk: Getting Lost. Many pet owners avoid using leashes to give their dogs a sense of freedom, but what happens if the dog runs away? Even well-trained pets can easily get lost during walks. To enhance their freedom while ensuring safety, consider using a retractable leash that keeps your dog within sight. Preventing Accidents. Dogs love to chase and run, and without a leash, they might chase after cars or other vehicles. If an owner can't pull them back in time, the risk of injury is high. Additionally, outdoor environments often have discarded food that could harm unmonitored pets. Responsible Dog Ownership. Civility is a fundamental principle in modern society, and dog ownership is...
Read more

Pet Products with Big Export Potential: 5 Great Picks to Watch

Image
 Looking to sell pet products overseas? Here’s a list of high-potential items that are in demand, not too competitive, and great for brands exploring new markets. Eco-Friendly Pet Waste Bags Why it’s a smart pick: Eco-friendly living is a big deal—especially in the U.S. and Europe. More pet owners are choosing biodegradable bags that are better for the planet. Options like PE-coated paper bags or compostable plastic are easy to carry and super handy for dog walks. Key point: Now that people are out and about again, clean and green waste bags are still must-haves. These are everyday items with strong potential. Smart Pet Feeders Why it’s a smart pick: Feeding your pet right is a top priority. While regular bowls are fine, smart feeders are becoming more popular. Features like scheduled feeding, remote control, and portion tracking help busy owners feel more in control. Key point: This is a long-term product that doesn’t need to be replaced often, which means higher pro...
Read more