Reviewed by Dr. Nicoletta Nica
Updated on 24/06/2026
Reading time 4 min.
Overview
Severity: Low
Life stage: All
Obesity in cats is the excessive accumulation of body fat that negatively affects health, mobility and overall quality of life. It is a very common nutritional disorder for domesticated cats, and it may develop as a result of gradual weight gain through feeding too much food or by having less than average physical activity. The slow progression of weight gain makes it difficult for many pet owner to recognize when their cat has become overweight; however, even mild obesity may have serious consequences for the cat’s internal organs and joints.
Causes
Obesity typically occurs as an ongoing result of a cat consuming more calories than it uses. The calorie imbalance that leads to weight gain is typically due to factors related to lifestyle and nutrition.
Factors that may cause your cats obesity are
- Overfeeding or free access to food
- High caloric intake through high calorie foods or treats
- Low physical activity, particularly for cats that live indoors
- Reduced energy requirements following neutering or spaying
- Lowered physical activity with age
- Feeding human food or frequent snacks.
Symptoms
Obesity can be observed based on a cats appearance as well as by behavioral changes.
Cats with obesity may display
- Ribs that are difficult for owners to feel due to excess body fat
- A rounded belly that hangs low
- Reduced interest in play or physical activity
- Reluctance to jump onto furniture or climb
- Reduced tolerance for exercise or exertion
- Inability to groom themselves because they have reduced mobility
- Excess fat near their lower back area or hips.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians evaluate feline obesity with the aid of physical examination and a body evaluation method, referred to as Body Condition Scoring.
Body Condition Scoring
Vets use the BCS to assess fat coverage over the ribs, waist, back, and abdomen. This will help veterinarians determine if their client’s cat is at an appropriate weight level, or if they are either too thin (underweight), too heavy (overweight), or severely obese.
Physical Examination
A veterinarian evaluates a cat by examining total body weight, fat distribution and placement, and muscle mass. In some instances, vets may recommend additional testing, such as blood work, to diagnose potential health issues that can lead to excessive weight gain.
Treatment
The treatment will focus on a controlled and gradual reduction in your cats body mass by changing their dietary habits and activities.
Dietary Management
- Adopt a low calorie, calorie-controlled, high protein diet instead of unrestricted or high calorie feeding
- Measure each meal; do not allow free feeding
- Avoid giving them treats; discourage eating people food
Activity Increase
- Increase interaction with your cat using games or toys, such as laser pointers, or by providing climbing structures
- Provide multiple brief periods of exercise throughout the day
Veterinary Supervision
Gradual weight loss is recommended and should always be under the supervision of a veterinarian. A rapid decrease in your cat’s body mass can cause severe health problems, including liver disease. Your veterinarian will need to see you regularly while your cat is losing weight.
Prevention
Preventing obesity is easier and safer than treating it once it develops. It also requires a long term commitment to their eating and exercise habits.
- Feed measured portions of food and do not free feed your pets.
- Limit the number of times you give your pets treats and limit the amount of high calorie snack foods given to your pets.
- Encourage your pets to engage in play and physical activity every day.
- Monitor your pets’ weights (and body condition) both at home and with your veterinarian.
- Make changes to their diet when they are spayed/neutered or as they age.
A consistent routine that includes consistent amounts of food and activities will help maintain a healthy body weight for your pet.
Reviewed by
Dr. Nicoletta Nica
DVM, MRCVS
Dr. Nicoletta was born in Romania and studied veterinary medicine. After graduation Dr. Nicoletta worked for a small animal clinic.
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