What's a healthy weight for cats?

Health risks

Your little fatty doesn't seem sick. Why should you be concerned? It's just more to love, right? Wrong. Extra weight puts cats at risk for many serious health problems. Diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart and respiratory disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, skin problems, some forms of cancer and a shorter life span are just some of the risk factors that come with feline obesity. But how do you know if your cat is overweight?

Ideal cat weight ranges

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, the following weight ranges are appropriate for healthy cats. Of course, in an animal as small as a cat, even a couple of pounds of extra weight can make a big difference in its overall health. If you are concerned it is always best to check with your veterinarian.

• Domestic cat: 8-10 lbs.
• Persian: 7-12 lbs.
• Siamese: 5-10 lbs.
• Maine coon: 10-25 lbs.

What is your cat's body condition score?

Another good way to evaluate your cat's weight is to do a body condition score. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Can you feel your cat's ribs? You should be able to feel each rib distinctly with just a little fat covering beneath the skin. If your cat's ribs are visually protruding, your cat is too thin. If you cannot feel his ribs at all, your cat is obese.
2. When you look at your cat from above, can you see your cat's waist? A cat's waistline should go inwards. If your cat does not have a distinct waist or if it protrudes outwards, it is likely that your cat is overweight.
3. Check the bony areas of your cat's body. You should be able to feel the bones of the spine, shoulders, hips and base of the tail. There will be a slight fat covering, but the bones should feel prominent.
4. When you view your cat from the side, does it have an abdominal tuck? Is the diameter of the cat's waist smaller than its ribcage? If so, your cat is within a healthy weight range. If the waist is the same size or larger than the ribcage, your cat is likely to be carrying extra weight.

Visit your veterinarian

If you suspect your cat is overweight or obese, make a friendly visit your local veterinarian. Don't be embarrassed. You are not alone. Pet obesity is a growing problem in the United States. The vet will be able to determine exactly how much weight your pet needs to lose and can help you to develop a healthy pet weight loss program specific to your cat's needs. Hang in there and Mr Snuggles will be back in shape in no time at all.

More ways to keep your cat healthy

• How much should a cat eat? You'll be surprised
• My cat is fat! What should I do?
• 5 Exercises you can do with your indoor cat