Your cat’s body shape
From the image you selected, your cat may be underweight.
Cats need to be at a healthy weight to live their best lives, so it is essential that owners keep a close eye on their pet’s shape and weight. That way, if your cat suddenly loses a lot of weight or they pile on the pounds, you can help get them back on track.
If you think your cat is underweight, you’ve noticed a change in their body shape or a sudden weight loss, it’s important to get them checked by your vet as soon as possible.
There are many different causes of weight loss – some of them are minor and others can be more serious. But your vet is there to help you provide the best care for your furry friend.
While many people focus on the issues with overweight pets, it’s also important to recognise the dangers of being underweight.
Underweight cats often suffer from problems that reduce their quality of life and shorten their life expectancy. These may include:
- Muscle loss
- Skin and coat problems (such as hair loss)
- Poor wound healing
- Low energy and behavioural changes
But not to worry, there’s plenty of things you can do to help your four-legged friend get back to their happy and healthy self!
Click on the cards below for our expert advice on feeding your cat treats, diets, exercise, and Body Condition Scoring (BCS).
Treats
We all love to make our cats feel special. And for many of us, that means spoiling them with a yummy treat. Read our do’s and don’ts on treating your feline friend.
Exercise
Playing with your cat is a great way to ensure they’re getting enough exercise while strengthening your bond. Discover our kitty exercise advice.
Diet
Cats come in many shapes and sizes. The type and amount of food they need depends on their individual needs. Read our advice on feeding your cat the correct diet.
Body Condition Scoring
Body Condition Scoring (BCS) helps owners and vets assess a pet’s body shape to check if they’re healthy. Read about how to check if your four-legged friend is in shape.