Obesity affects over a third of pet cats in developed countries and is a leading cause of preventable disease and reduced quality of life. Evidence-based weight management restores mobility, comfort and longevity.
Feline obesity causes significant and largely invisible suffering. Overweight cats experience chronic joint pain, reduced mobility, difficulty grooming, and increased susceptibility to multiple diseases. Many owners underestimate their cat's weight or perceive a round appearance as normal or desirable. Weight loss in cats must be carefully managed — rapid loss triggers hepatic lipidosis, a life-threatening liver condition. Effective welfare-centred management combines measured, high-protein feeding with increased environmental enrichment to raise activity. Regular body condition scoring by veterinarians and owner education about appropriate feline physique are essential prevention tools.