Cats Weigh in on Exercise

by DoItYourself Staff

Are those extra pounds weighing down your four-legged friend, the cat potato? If so, now is the purrfect time to take a bite out of obesity with your cat and get fit together.

Many pet owners are simply unaware that Fluffy is packing a few too many pounds. In fact, nearly 40 percent of cats are overweight, but only 26 percent of cat owners think their feline needs help battling the bulge. Many cat owners probably don't think their cats need to lose weight because a couple of pounds aren't a big deal. But, a few pounds can make a big difference in your cat's health. For example, as little as three extra pounds on a 10-lb. cat is equivalent to an extra 40 pounds on an average-sized woman. Just like humans, overweight cats are at a higher risk of developing health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis and mobility issues, or trouble moving around the house.

"Sure, our feline friends love to cat nap, but they need diet and exercise to maintain a healthy weight," says Steve Dale, pet expert. "Helping your cat lose weight is as easy as three key steps and eight weeks."

Dale offers these steps to healthy weight loss:

Proactive veterinary care. Before starting a weight loss program, consult your veterinarian.

Regular exercise. Adding a few extra steps and activities to your day can really help both you and your cat burn unneeded calories! These are some of Dale's favorites:

Schedule play time. Cats love to hunt, so activate their prey-drive. Dangling a fishing pole and wand-type toys with feathers or bells at the end of a string can be lots of fun for both of you. Playing with these toys while watching TV is much better than being a couch potato!
Place cat's food at a distance. If you have a multi-story home, try placing your cat's food bowl on a different floor from the one he sleeps on to encourage as much stair-climbing as possible (this is not recommended for litter boxes, which should be easily accessible).
Proper nutrition. Restricting calorie intake is an important part of the weight loss process, which involves portion control and a low-fat premium cat food. Iams Weight Control® formulas now contain L-Carnitine, a nutrient that naturally helps reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass-and you can see a difference in as little as eight weeks!

"Remember to be patient," says Dale. "Do not put your cat on a crash diet. Cats should only lose about one percent of their initial weight per week. Helping them return to an ideal weight will ensure your cat lives healthier for longer."

Cat owners can learn more by taking the "Iams Friends in Fitness Challenge." Free Friends in Fitness kits are available (while supplies last) by calling the Iams Consumer Care Center toll-free at (800) 863-4267.