What causes obesity in cats?

If you own a cat you will have noticed first-hand that these adorable felines are natural athletes with extraordinary physical abilities that make them masters of their environment, leaving you in wonder at their unique dexterity. They possess great agility, flexibility, quick reflexes and great speed.

If you notice that your cat is losing these skills while gaining weight, it is very likely to have an obesity problem, which is not in your cat’s best health. Obesity in cats is not due to a single cause, but rather a combination of risk factors that can lead to this condition.

Risk factors

→ Age: Cats between 5 and 11 years of age have a higher risk of obesity.

→ Diseases and medication: Chemical contraceptives can alter a cat’s hormonal profile, decrease insulin sensitivity and predispose the body to fat accumulation. Hypothyroidism can also cause obesity in a cat.

→ Breed: Common cats have twice the risk of obesity as purebred cats. The only exception is the Manx breed, which has the same risk as any normal cat.

→ Environmental factors: If your cat lives in a flat and is not very active or does not live with dogs or children who stimulate him to move around, he is more likely to be at risk of becoming obese.

→ Activity: If your cat cannot be physically active outside the home, it is more likely to suffer from excess weight.

→ Neutering: A neutered cat may have a tendency to gain weight, especially if physical activity decreases due to hormonal changes.

→ Feeding: Overfeeding or feeding a diet that is not specifically formulated for your cat’s needs can also lead to weight problems.

→ Your behaviour: If you don’t have time to play with your friend and instead of having fun together as a treat you reward him/her with food, this positive reinforcement in some cases leads to an increased risk of excessive weight gain.

Take care of your cat’s diet

Consider these factors, especially your pet’s diet. Carefully choose the food that best suits your cat’s needs.In the Picart Select range you will find Select Cat Kitten for young cats and Select Cat Adult Sensitive – Sterilised with salmon and trout, for sterilised cats, designed to control health and weight. If your cat is more of a chicken cat, you can opt for Select Cat Adult Sterilised Chicken and Egg (Grain Free), and if your cat is over 7 years old, our recommendation is: Picart Select Adult 7+. In the Nutribest range, you can choose between Nutribest Cat Sterilised or Nutribest Cat Adult Salmon & Rice.

If you are concerned about your cat’s health, we encourage you to review our feeding charts, which you will find on the website, on each product page. If you notice rapid weight gain, reduce the amount of food accordingly and consult your vet. Obesity in cats can have serious consequences for their health, so it is essential to take preventive measures to keep your feline agile and fit.

With the right combination of nutrition and physical activity, your cat will enjoy a long and happy life.