We’ve all come across a plump tabby cat at some point, but what’s the reason behind some cats being more hefty than others? So, what causes tabby cats to be fat?
Tabby cats become overweight because they don’t get enough exercise and eat high-calorie food. Cats can also gain weight due to health issues, being spayed or neutered, and even being pregnant.
Tabby cats can become overweight due to a lack of physical activity and the inability to burn calories. There are various other factors that contribute to a tabby cat’s weight gain, which we will discuss in detail. Let’s explore why tabby cats tend to be fat.
Reasons Why Your Tabby Cat Is Fat
There are six primary reasons why cats become overweight. Typically, cats gain extra weight because they don’t get enough exercise and eat a diet that is too high in calories. However, occasionally, unexplained weight gain can indicate a medical issue that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian. Here are six common reasons why your tabby cat is overweight.
Your Cat Is Not Getting Enough Exercise
One of the main reasons why tabby cats are fat is because they don’t get enough exercise. It’s important to remember that cats need regular exercise to stay in shape. We suggest making sure your cat gets at least an hour of exercise every day. This is especially important for indoor cats who tend to get less exercise than outdoor cats.
Your Cat Is Eating Too Much
Tabby cats often become overweight due to overeating, particularly if they don’t get enough exercise. The quantity of food your cat requires daily is determined by its weight. For Tabby cats weighing around 8 to 12 pounds, it’s recommended to provide them with approximately 0.7 ounces of dry food or 9 ounces of wet food per day. If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount of food for your cat, it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian for guidance on their diet.
Your Cat Is Eating Foods That Have Too Many Calories
Sometimes, it’s not the quantity of food that causes cats to gain weight, but rather the quality. If their diet is too high in calories, it can easily result in extra pounds. An average tabby cat weighing 8 to 12 pounds should consume around 260 calories per day. If you’re unsure about your cat’s diet, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian. Some cats may require more or fewer calories, and a few might even need a specialized diet to maintain their ideal weight.
Spaying And Neutering Can Sometimes Cause Weight Gain In Cats
While some people say that their cat becomes fat after being spayed or neutered, the surgery itself is not the cause of this weight gain. The reason is that spayed and neutered cats need fewer calories per day compared to intact cats. Because of this, veterinarians often suggest feeding cats meals at specific times instead of allowing them to eat freely throughout the day.
Your Cat Could Be Pregnant
If you have a female cat that hasn’t been spayed and she goes outside or there are intact male cats in the home, she may gain weight due to pregnancy. Other signs of pregnancy in cats include:
● A rise in hunger
● Sleeping more often
● Increased affection
● Creating a “nest”
● An enlarged abdomen
● Heat cycles stopping
If you think your cat might be pregnant, it’s a good idea to take her to the vet. This will ensure she gets the right care and you’ll be ready to take care of any kittens if they come along.
There are certain health issues that can lead to cats gaining weight.
If your cat is gaining weight without any known reason, it could be due to a medical condition like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. So, if you notice this, it’s best to take your cat to the vet for evaluation.
Tabby cats with orange fur are often unfairly criticized for being overweight compared to other tabby cats of different colors. This misconception may be attributed to the influence of the popular series Garfield. However, it is important to note that while there may be a significant number of plump orange tabby cats, they are not inherently heavier than other types of tabby cats. The weight of a cat is primarily determined by its eating and exercise habits, rather than its coat color or markings.
Is It OK For My Cat To Be Fat
Certain cats are naturally bigger and heavier compared to others. For instance, some cats have a larger physical size and height in comparison to other cats. However, it is not good for cats to be overweight or obese. If you’re unsure whether your cat is fat or not, consulting your veterinarian can provide clarity on this matter.
How Do I Get My Fat Cat To Lose Weight
Just like us humans, the easiest way to help most cats lose weight is by making them exercise more and reducing the calories they eat each day. If you spend more time playing with your cat, they’ll naturally get more exercise.
If you want to reduce the amount of food your cat eats, you can try controlling the portions and feeding them at specific times. Using weight management cat food may also be beneficial for some cats.
Why Is My Cat Fat But Doesn’t Eat Much
If your cat is getting fat without any clear reason, it could be because of a medical problem that is making them gain weight. Conditions like hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease can lead to cats gaining weight without an obvious cause. It’s a good idea to take your cat to the vet if they are getting heavier despite not eating much.
When it comes to tabby cats being overweight, there are a few other factors to keep in mind. This includes the ideal weight for your tabby cat and when it’s necessary to consult a veterinarian regarding your cat’s weight. Here are some additional points to think about regarding the reasons behind tabby cats being fat.
How Much Should Your Tabby Cat Weigh
Typically, tabby cats should weigh around 8 to 12 pounds. However, it’s normal for some cats to be lighter or heavier than this range without being considered overweight. For instance, there are tabby cats that weigh only 5 pounds, while there are also larger ones that can reach up to 18 pounds and still be in good health. If you’re worried about your cat’s weight, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
When To See A Vet About Your Cat’s Weight
There are multiple reasons why certain cat owners might need to consult a veterinarian regarding their cat’s weight. If your cat is gaining or losing weight unexpectedly and there is no apparent reason, it is crucial to take them to the vet right away. This is because various medical conditions that necessitate veterinary care can lead to these symptoms in cats. Furthermore, if your cat is unable to shed pounds or if you have concerns about their weight, it is advisable to seek veterinary assistance.
You can also check this YouTube video about this topic:
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