How to Help a Cat Lose Weight Through Exercise

Posted by Jennifer Copley May 31, 2009

Cheap, high-carbohydrate cat foods and a sedentary indoor lifestyle have caused an obesity epidemic among domestic cats, accompanied by a variety of health problems such as diabetes.

Crash diets are just as unhealthy for cats as they are for people, and diet foods for cats don't usually work unless the cat is fed so little that he is nearly starving. Switching your cat to a high-protein, wet food diet and ensuring that he gets plenty of exercise will enable him to lose weight in a healthy, natural way without excessive feeding restrictions.

Strategies for helping plump cats trim down and slim cats stay fit and healthy through regular exercise include:

• Using interactive toys to play with your cat each day
• Buying or building a cat tree to provide indoor climbing opportunities
• Leash training your cat and taking him for walks outdoors
• Purchasing or building a cat fence or enclosure for safe outdoor roaming
• Buying or making solo cat toys for the cat to play with on his own

For information on cat food and nutrition, see What Should I Feed My Cat?