Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a cat who is pretty fat. I've switched from regular cat food to one with no byproducts. I've also been giving canned food (I have 2 cats.....the other one is prone to urine crystals so the canned food is a must).

My problem is, he seems to be getting bigger. I have started separating him from the other one so that the fat one doesn't eat more than his fair share. The problem is, I have NO IDEA what his fair share should be!

If it helps, I am using the Chicken Soup for the Car Lovers Soul (dried and canned). I know that they make a light formula, which I may start to give to both cats (the other one is not really fat but is developing a "pooch".

Both cats are neutered males.

How do I determine the right serving size for the cats.

Up front, I want to caution that one thing to always rememeber with helping a cat lose weight is to not do anything sudden. Gradual changes. Don't suddenly reduce food by a large quantity as it can cause liver problems.

You didn't mention how old the cat was. After about age 8 or 9, many cats need to switch to Senior food whether for weight maintenance or because Senior cats have different nutritional needs than younger cats.

I think most bags of food (including light) will have a recommended portion size by cat's weight. But, I'd discuss with your vet to see what they recommend for type of food and portion based on your cat's age and weight. It isn't the same food and portion for all overweight cats. And...remember GRADUAL change.
-----
Tammy
Stanley and Pookey

Hi There,

I recommend canned food only for overweight cats that need to lose weight. This is actually best anyway, because canned food is high in protein and cats are carnivores. They don't even have the enzyme needed to digest carbs correctly, which is why they gain weight.

If your cat is a "dry food junkie" like some of mine, you may have to feed some dry, but try to feed a reduced amount.

Please keep us updated.

Regards,
PHKitkat

I have been giving mainly canned food recently. My problem is, I don't know how much to give. The cans have amounts for cats depending on weight. Problem is, my cat is bigger than he should be, so I don't want to feed him for the weight he IS. And I don't want to underfeed him b/c then he'd be missing out on nutrients.

AGGH!