Is There Something I'm Doing Wrong Since My Cat Is Overweight?

You've come to the realization that your cat is a little overweight. Even though you've thought about his eating habits, you can't seem to figure out why he has become so fat! Sure, he's a little bit lazy; but, aren't all felines? Believe it or not, 48% of cats are considered to be obese. Cats were once considered to be wild animals, so keeping them indoors can't be the only reason. He wouldn't get off the couch if the door was wide open anyway. There doesn't seem to be an end in sight, so does this mean he continues to gain? So, why exactly is your cat overweight?

First of all, there are many different variables that contribute to the health of a pet cat. For instance, the type and quality of cat food plays a major role. Many brands of dry and low quality cat foods contain large amounts of corn and grains that have a negative effect on the metabolism. Being that cats are carnivorous, their stomach digests natural, raw meat easier than a plant-based protein. Consuming large portions of vegetable-based products can increase weight in a short period of time.

Not only does dry cat food hold some responsibility for your obese cat, but the amount eaten holds another large part as well. Typically, people believe that if the cat bowl is completely full, then that's the amount that should be fed. This has been proven to be false. Studies have shown that cutting food intake by half and distributing twice a day will make a huge difference within one week.

Another question to ask is, How much does my cat exercise? The answer is just as important as the question. Regular exercise is healthy for a feline physically and mentally. It also can improve the bond between you and your cat which is the best gift. The activity that is more beneficial depends on whether he lives indoor or outdoor. Chances are, if he's overweight, then he's an indoor cat. Over 65% of indoor felines are overweight by at least 5 pounds.

There are scratching posts for the vastly passive cat and a multi-post "city" complete with beds and carpeted shelves for the adventurous ones. A number of toys combine the urge to scratch with the urge to hunt (play). Throw in some of your pet feline's natural curiosity and a toy, which can be very inexpensive, is designed. Regardless of the exercise of choice, the more active the cat is the less he will weigh. Combining the extra activity with the decreased amount of food will help solve the riddle of why your cat is overweight.

The fact is, it is half your fault as to why your cat is overweight. Saving money on cat food doesn't help provide him with all the nutrients that he needs. Not making any time to interact with him doesn't assist with the life change he needs to become a skinny kitty. The only way you are able to accept full blame is if you don't take this information and apply it. Now that you've been informed, it's time to do something about it.

Raised with six (6) cats I was not really aware of many of the problems poor nutrition and lack of exercise caused. I have since discovered so much, right here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kef_Hollenbach

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Cat Condos: Exercise And Fun For Our Feline Friends

Having been rescuing and befriending abandoned cats for over 26 years, I have become very cognizant of the importance of providing and maintaining our furry friends' once active outdoor lifestyles to their new indoor environment. My current three "wonder cats" - Mikko, Panther and Buddy - used to be very active outdoors; some activities were of a "fending one's turf", resulting in the showing of "battle scars"; some were more of a playful nature, i.e. running, chasing and climbing. Deciding to transition my kids to be solely indoor inhabitants was due mostly to their well-being and overall health. Because of this I was concerned about how to maintain their active lifestyles, maintain a healthy body weight, and offer a quality of life which was both fun and relaxing.

After succeeding in coaxing my guys indoors (it took me 2 YEARS to finally get Panther to trust me enough to come indoors, and even then continued to be a "process"!), I wanted to offer them a quality of life where I felt I wasn't depriving them in any way by keeping them indoors, while maintaining their health.

Along with investigating the most optimal nutritional needs for my guys, I wanted them to get the most out of indoor exercising tools. I researched and discovered that cat condos, trees and beds (also known as furniture) offered a specific place for cats to call their own, in addition to providing them with fun, relaxation and most importantly exercise, due to the climbing, jumping, chasing and scratching (most coming with scratching posts) that seem to be common activities.

My two black and white cats - Mikko and Panther - seem to have been developing a very unique and special relationship, playing, "stalking" each other and hanging out together quite frequently during the day and into the night. Although Buddy has a very loving and kind personality, he and Panther tend to continue to be "territorial" around each other, causing them to mostly avoid the other, with occasional "scruffs." And Mikko seems to be the "peace keeper" between the other two.

I totally love watching my three felines in their cat tree. I have found on many occasions I turn the tv (and other "distractions") off, and watch the "kids go at it", they seeming to be totally immersed in their "jungle gym" and with each other. Knowing they are all having fun, and getting their exercise at the same time, makes me one happy dad!

I have my own online business specializing in cat trees, condos and beds, both self-standing and wall mounted. I also have included on my website litter box cabinets with additional drawers, for those humans who prefer a more "hidden look" with cat's "bathrooms" from the standard litter box areas.

If you would like to check out my website, I can be found at http://www.CatCondoFun.com. I have an assortment of high quality hand-built cat condos and trees to choose from, suitable for every budget.
All the best,
Joe Fazio

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_Fazio

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Ten Tips for a Healthy Older Cat

As your cat ages, you're going to have to care for them slightly differently then you would a young cat. Your cat will be slowing down a little, and without proper care, may develop health problems. Here are 10 tips for having a healthy older cat.

Ten Tips For a Healthier Cat:

1. Loss of teeth- It is harder for the cat to chew, and it's possible for mouth bacteria to make its way into the cat's blood stream. It's best if you made sure that your cat's dental health was good all of its life to prevent loss of teeth in the first place, but in the meantime, you can make eating easier for your cat by feeding it wet food, or dry food with a little water added in. You can also try out using crunchy dental health treats, or investing in cat toothpaste and a cat toothbrush. Try switching to a "complete" cat food, or if possible, feed them a food made especially for senior cats for a healthier diet.
2. Less Exercise- The cat will become less agile. You can keep your cat in shape by playing with them daily, or at least once a week.
3. Stiff joints- Stiff joints will result in aching, and/or arthritis. If your cat is licking its joints excessively, it may be a sign that your cat has stiff joints. Your cat will be less likely to develop stiff joints if you play with your cat often.
4. Skin disease- When your cat has a skin disease it may be in pain, and have an awful itch. There are many different types of skin diseases. Some are caused by allergies, others are caused by bug bites or worms. There are quite a few different treatments for skin diseases, depending on what the cause is.
5. More time sleeping- As your cat ages it will need more sleep, so give them a warm and comfortable place to nap. Unfortunately, your cat will get less exercise, and will be prone to obesity. Remember to have playtime with your cats, and they will get in some exercise. You and your cat will also bond more if you play together.
6. Less acute hearing- The cat might not hear you calling, and may be easily frightened or surprised. This may lead to a flighty cat, who is afraid of people. Try not to sneak up behind your cat, and stay in a range that it won't surprise them if they see you.
7. Deteriorating eyesight- Your cat may develop cataracts, and may not notice their surroundings as much. Make sure that you don't appear close up out the corner of their eye, and surprise them.
8. Thinner coat and loss of conditioning- A thinner coat will leave the cat less protected from cold, and other animals. Loss of conditioning may cause dry skin, which can lead to skin disease. This can be prevented by giving your cat a supplement in his/her food such as fish oil. Be sure that the food you are feeding them is nutritionally complete and has enough omega-3 fatty acids. You may notice that your cat is starting to look scruffy. As cats age, they don't groom as much, so you may consider purchasing a cat brush so you can help out and keep your cat well groomed. You'll also find less cat hair around the house if you keep them groomed!
9. Poorer absorption and digestion- This causes a sensitive stomach, allergies, stiff joints, lethargy, slow healing, bloating, poor coat or skin, loose stool, and excessive shedding. It sounds awful, but can be prevented easily. Some advise feeding your cat fresh, high quality meat, fowl, and fish, along with the use of probiotics, digestive enzymes, lipids, and minerals. You can also help out your cat's digestive system by adding high fiber foods to their diet. A little bit of pumpkin should work well.
10. Obesity- Obesity can predispose cats to diabetes, Hepatic Lipidosis, and arthritis. Once again, playing with your cat as exercise should help with obesity. You may also want to put your cat on a diet to help it lose some weight.

Overall, give your cat a lot of love, and keep him/her comfortable in their older years. Your cat will live longer, and stay healthy through their old age.

If you enjoyed this article or found it informative check out my blog for others like it.

http://ecatbehaviors.blogspot.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eileen_C.

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