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First things first, if your cat, young or old, has been losing weight and fast, then a vet trip is essential to determine the underlying cause of the problem. Our sneaky friends are notoriously brave and clever when it comes to covering up illness, so it is always better to check even if they seem right as rain otherwise. Lots of pretty serious health issues can start off simply with weight loss, so always check with the vet to rule out anything nasty.
Most of our furry pillows tend to be a little on the chunky side, so spotting a slimmer slinky and knowing when they’re in need of a little extra floof is important for your cat’s health. A simple trick to determine at home whether your feline friend might be underweight is to feel their ribs. If they feel like the back of your hand then they’re just right, but if your housemate is starting to feel a little more like your knuckles then it’s time to step in.
How can I help my cat gain weight?
Once medical conditions have been ruled out by your vet, and your kitten is in need of some extra pounds, there are a few things you can consider to help them get a little more cosy.
Up the calories
Your cat may simply just need to eat more through the day to put on weight and reach a healthy size. Following a complete, balanced meal plan designed to increase their weight should set you off to a great start, your vet should be able to recommend where to start.
Reassurance
Some nervous cats may be getting spooked during their mealtimes, so ensure your cat can eat their dinner in a peaceful spot free from any scary sounds / dogs / toddlers / building works… the list of potential upsets could go on.
Feeding fair
If you live with more than one furry friend, then making sure each of your pals is getting a fair deal might be a trick you’re missing. Some cats guard food from the others and stop the skinny guys getting their share. Feeding separately is the best way to combat this and eliminate any food aggression.
Mix up the meals
If your cat seems a little bored of their plate and has been eating the same meals forever, mixing up cat food textures and flavours could really bring some excitement to the table and give them a new spark of enthusiasm for their food.
Get the aromas flowing
A really great way to get them going is to simply heat up their meals a touch to enhance the delicious aromas of their plate. This will hopefully peak their interest and make their dish more desirable.
These simple tips are easy to follow and will hopefully make the world of difference to your favourite housemate. Lean on your vet for their insight too, especially when it comes down to changing diet and trying out new foods. You’ll have your furball back in perfect condition before you know it.
