Being a “Fat Cat” Isn’t All It’s Cracked Up to Be! Ways to Help Your Feline Shed Some Pounds!

  Posted on April 17, 2015  by Joy of Living  No comments

Hey! It’s Party Marty Time! Friday is my favorite day of the week! Not only are we facing the fabulous weekend, but I also get to pontificate briefly on this blog…speak my mind…share my wisdom…and basically prove how amazing I really am! Yes, I am one cool cat.

Unfortunately, not all cats are as cool as I am…and not all cats are as in shape as I am (or as I think I am!). The sad reality is that the obesity rates in felines have gone through the roof in recent years. According to petparents.com, some studies have shown that an estimated 57% of cats are too heavy! Sure, a few pounds on humans is not a big deal, but an extra roll on your cat can lead to some serious health issues, including diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure and heart disease. Is that what you want for your cat?

Sure, you have to control your cat’s diet, but exercise is part of the equation, too. So, here are a few things you can do to encourage your cat to get up, get out and get going. Shake off that weight, baby!

**Put a bowl of food on an elevated surface so your cat has to jump to get to it.

**Hide small bowls of food in your home so your cat can spend the day on the hunt searching for his “prey!”

**Put your cat’s food in places where he or she has to climb to access it.

**Invest in one of those laser pointers or a flashlight. Not many cats can resist chasing down the dot or the flash of light. However, make sure you allow him or her to “catch” the dot or light every once in a while!

**Roll a big ball or yarn across the floor and let your cat have some fun playtime.

**Purchase a multi-tiered cat tower. If you hide treats in it your cat will be motivated to climb and play.

**And believe it or not, with the proper equipment and training…and oodles of patience…you can train your cat to take a walk outside on a leash.

As with anything pertaining to your cat and his/her overall health, please consult your physician first.