Many cat owners deal with overweight cats. However, the opposite can also be a problem. Underweight cats can deal with a host of health issues. Weight loss can also indicate different diseases in cats. In this article, you’ll learn how to tell if you have an underweight cat, how to promote weight gain, and when to talk to a vet.
Do I Have an Underweight Cat?
Firstly, it can be hard to tell if you have an underweight cat in the first place. Because so many cats are overweight, it can be difficult to tell what a healthy feline weight is. Luckily, there’s an easy way to tell if your cat is at a healthy weight. It’s called the hand test. Simply feel for your kitty’s ribs. In a healthy cat, the ribs should feel like the back of your hand. If the ribs feel more similar to your palm, then your cat is probably overweight. However, if the ribs feel like your knuckles (or if you can see the ribs just by looking), then your cat is likely underweight.
Make Your Cat’s Food Appetizing
Of course, an underweight cat will need to gain weight to be healthy. Some cats are picky eaters, so be sure to offer them both wet and dry food. Also make sure your cat has dry kibble available to munch on throughout the day, as cats are natural grazers. Finally, you might try enhancing your cat’s wet food by microwaving it for a few seconds. The aroma can make a big difference to a finicky cat!
Watch Out For Health Problems
Cats, just like people, come in all shapes and sizes. This means that some cats are just naturally skinny. However, for other cats, being underweight can be a sign of a health problem. The key is to pay attention to your cat’s weight over time. If your cat has always been on the slim side and they have a clean bill of health from the vet, then there’s nothing to worry about. Changes in your cat’s weight are more concerning. If you notice sudden weight loss in your cat, then it’s time to call the vet for a check-up.
We Help Cats Stay Happy and Healthy
Texavet offers a variety of veterinary services for cats. Call us today to book a wellness exam for your furry friend.