I have two cats that eat the same amount of food with the same frequency, but one weighs...

Obesity can lead to health problems in cats of any age. And just as it is with people, once a cat becomes overweight, the excess weight is difficult to lose.

Obesity may make a cat more susceptible to a variety of physical disorders, such as impaired heart, breathing and liver functions and digestive disturbances. In addition, extra weight can cause increased stress on the skeleton, ligaments, joints and tendons, which can lead to degenerative arthritis. This particularly becomes a problem with older cats, as they tend to become less active as they get older. Overweight cats are at higher risks of developing diabetes mellitus and cats that are obese also run the risk of a reduced life span. Cats who are obese may have difficulty grooming themselves, making them more prone to skin problems, such as dermatitis. Folds of skin resulting from rolls of fat may invite infection.

I wouldn't be concerned that one cat weighs more than the other even though they eat the same amount of food. Similar to people, the metabolism of cats will vary from one cat to another. It's possible the cat that weighs less is more efficient in using the food he eats and thus stays at a lesser weight. The following are some suggestions to help your cats lose some of the excess weight:

• If your cats tend to beg for food, omit feeding food from the table. Sometimes this is sufficient to achieve the desired weight reduction.


• If your cat remains obese, reduce the amount of food that is offered. Feed only 65 to 75% of the previous intake, the amount depends upon the cat's body condition and the veterinarian's advice. It will be important for you to measure the amount you feed each day to ensure your cat receives a consistent quantity of food each day.


• Feed smaller portions of food, more often. Cat's are nibblers and will eat many small meals through the course of a day. Dividing your cat's daily ration into smaller portions, fed three to four times each day will help your cat pace himself, and reduce his likelihood of facing an empty food bowl.


• Avoid diets that are high in fat. Purina® Cat Chow® Vitality Formula Dry Cat Food would be an excellent choice at this stage in your cat's life. Vitality Cat Chow® is lower in fat and calories, to help your cat achieve and maintain a health weight. This diet would be acceptable to be fed to both cats, no matter their age or body condition.

While cats are not likely to respond to a planned exercise program, encourage your cats to exercise through play. Find a toy your cats have enjoyed over the years or dangle or drag a piece of string just out of its reach.

Keep in mind, your cats have probably very gradually gained weight over a long period of time. Likewise, it will take a long time for your cat to lose this extra weight. Be patient and be consistent. Your reward will be a longer healthier life for your cats.

Source: http://www.catchow.com