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Cat obesity is a growing problem, contributed to by genetics, high-fat diets, overeating, lack of exercise and health conditions like hypothyroidism. In fact, over half the cats in the U.S. are overweight. And while gaining just a few pounds might not make much difference on a human body, it can add much stress to the bones and organs of your cat’s body.

Common health problems of overweight cats:

1. lameness and lethargy

2. arthritis

3. diabetes

4. becoming easily overheated and overtired

5. increased anesthetic and surgical risks

When is a cat considered overweight?

When he or she is 20-25% above ideal weight or has enough excess body fat to impair health or body function.

What are some guidelines for a healthy cat shape?

Ribs can’t be seen, but are easily felt
A defined waist is present behind the ribcage when viewed from above
Viewed from the side, the stomach tucks in behind the ribcage

How can I determine if my cat is overweight?

Ribs can only be found and felt with significant pressure
Fat deposits are visible at base of tail
Belly is rounded when viewed from the side

Why overweight cats may struggle to slim down

Metabolic disorders
If a metabolic disorder such as hypothyroidism is causing your cat's weight gain, a change in feeding may not be enough to help. Have your cat examined by your vet to help rule out metabolic dysfunction and disease and to help make a plan for your cat’s healthier lifestyle.

Lower-calorie foods may not be low enough
Maybe you’ve tried giving your cat “reduced-calorie” food. While this food may have fewer calories than others, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s low enough in calories to help your cat lose the excess weight.

Lack of exercise
Without adequate, consistent exercise, some overweight cats may fail to lose weight, even when on a reduced-calorie diet.

What you can do to help your cat maintain a healthy weight

Place only a measured amount of food in your pet’s bowl each day
Provide plenty of exercise opportunities
Monitor treats and snacks
Follow the exam and check-up schedule suggested by your vet

TOPICS: HEALTH DIET

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FAQs

Below you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our company, our products and caring for your cats. If you have a question that isn't addressed here, please feel free to contact us.

Q: How can I email or talk with the Purina Pet Care team?

A: If you would like to talk with us, please contact us here or call us at 1­-888­-228­-2469.

Our Hours of Operation:

  • Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST
Q: How are Purina Cat Chow products different from other healthy pet foods?

A: Inside every bag of Purina Cat Chow you'll find a selective blend of protein, fat, and fiber. Everything we use in our premium cat food formulas has a place in your cat's healthy diet.

Q: How can I be sure of the quality of the Purina Cat Chow products?

A: Our top priority is the quality of the food that nourishes not only your pets, but the pets we share our lives with, too. So from source to bowl, the quality of our food is assured by taking the following steps:

Ingredient Sourcing

  • Purina ingredient sourcing and processing meet or exceed FDA, USDA or AAFCO standards for pet food. And every supplier of ingredients for Purina products must meet our stringent standards for ingredient specifications, product safety, sanitation and manufacturing practices.
  • Ingredient Testing
  • All of Purina's North American manufacturing facilities have on-site quality assurance laboratories and staff. And we're working to expand the use of technology to further screen ingredients for quality assurance.
  • Ingredient Tracking & Control
  • 99% of all Purina pet food products sold in the U.S. are made in Purina-owned U.S. manufacturing facilities and Purina's sophisticated tracking system ensures important measures of control: All raw ingredients are tracked from time of receipt at our plants, through their inclusion in finished products, and on to retail stores.
Q: Where is your food manufactured?

A: 99% of all Purina-branded pet food products sold in the U.S. are made in Purina-owned U.S. manufacturing facilities. Purina's sophisticated tracking system ensures important measures of control: All raw ingredients are tracked from time of receipt at our plants, through their inclusion in finished products, and on to retailers.

Q: I am unable to find a particular product in my area. Can you help me locate it?

A: Yes, we can help. Although distribution of our Purina Cat Chow products is national, not all stores carry all sizes and varieties. Contact our Customer Service department via our Contact Us page or call us at 1­-888­-228­-2469.

Q: Do you offer coupons?

A: We offer coupons in local papers, through direct mailing programs and via emails to registered members. We don't have a regular section on our website itself. We suggest you watch for sales or promotions at your local retailer.

Q: Where can I find articles and information about my cat?

A: We believe there's always more to learn and to share and that discovery should be fun. It's one more way we're helping you and your cat share a better life together. Visit Catipedia for articles and information and... a little bit of fun.

Q: Where can I find articles and information about my cat?

A: We strongly recommend talking to your veterinarian for immediate answers to urgent situations. While CatChow.com is an excellent resource of information provided by cat care experts, your veterinarian can provide the best care for your individual cat.

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