Debunking Cat Diet Myths: Can Cats Lose Weight on Prescription Diet and High-Fiber Cat Food Alone?

As cats grow healthily, they naturally develop obesity. Obese cats may develop diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other problems. It's important to manage your cat's weight to maintain a healthy and adorable figure. Many people choose high-fiber weight loss diets to help their cats manage their weight, but do they really help cats lose weight?

What are the ingredients in weight loss prescription food and high-fiber cat food?

Prescription weight loss diets and high-fiber cat foods are low in fat and contain highly processed grain carbohydrates and indigestible fiber, designed to help cats feel fuller longer. However, cats only need a small amount of fiber to aid digestion. High-fiber foods, on the other hand, can block the absorption of important nutrients into the small intestine, preventing weight loss and leading to malnutrition.

Furthermore, weight loss diets and high-fiber cat foods may not contain enough protein to meet basic nutritional needs, slowing the cat's metabolism and making it difficult to achieve weight loss. Too little protein intake can also lead to a decrease in muscle mass in cats, while the processed carbohydrates in weight loss diets and high-fiber cat foods can stimulate the pancreas to secrete large amounts of insulin, leading to more fat accumulation.

How to help cats lose weight healthily?

① Calculate daily calorie and water intake

A cat's daily calorie and water intake varies depending on their activity level, pregnancy, spay/neuter status, and other physical conditions. Numerous websites are available online that calculate a cat's daily calorie and water intake. Besides using these data as a reference, it's also a good idea to take your cat to a veterinarian for a thorough physical exam to determine the amount of weight loss and calorie and water requirements.

② Feed at regular times and fixed amounts

Many overweight cats suffer from a lack of exercise and excessive calorie intake due to overindulgence. While regular feeding may be inconvenient for cat owners, it can be a more effective way to manage a cat's daily food intake. If your cat is already on a fixed diet, it's recommended to divide the food into separate bowls and place them in different locations around the house, forcing the cat to move around more before eating.

③ Low-carb diet and less snacking

Cats are carnivores, and their daily nutritional needs primarily rely on animal protein, with a lower requirement for carbohydrates. While dry food is convenient, it also contains a high carbohydrate content, which can contribute to obesity. A weight loss diet can include a semi-wet/semi-dry diet to reduce carbohydrate intake while also replenishing water intake. When choosing dry food, consider choosing a low-carb option. Just like with humans, cats should avoid excessive snacking and manage their caloric intake.

④ Exercise more and move around more

In addition to diet control, more exercise is also very helpful for cats to lose weight. Cat owners can spend more time with their cats and use cat teasers to increase their activity time. They can also add movable "prey" to the home, such as moving toys, to encourage cats to move around.

A word of caution: The recommended weight loss rate for cats is 0.5-2% of their body weight. A balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for healthy weight loss. When implementing a weight loss plan, be sure to consult a veterinarian beforehand.