Is my cat really fat?

#Middlebury

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My cat Pedro had his annual checkup the other day, and the veterinarian said he needed to lose 10 pounds. Can you believe that? He doesn’t look fat at all – in fact Pedro looks very healthy. Could the vet be wrong? – Barbara Y., Burlington, Vermont

DEAR BARBARA: A healthy, recommended weight for a cat does vary between breeds. A Maine Coon, for example, can weigh as much as 25 pounds, while some Siamese cats are feather-light at just over 5 pounds.

You can verify the vet’s diagnosis in two ways: search online for the recommended healthy weight for his breed. Or, try these at-home techniques:

• Stand over Pedro and look down at him. His body from this angle should look kind of like an hourglass if he’s at a healthy weight. If he looks like a pear, he’s outside the norm for weight.
• Now, look at Pedro from the side. Does his belly sag? That’s typically extra fat.
• Finally, hold Pedro in your lap. Can you feel his ribs when you run a hand along his flank? If not, then it’s time to slim him down.

To help Pedro lose weight, control his feeding more tightly. Feed him exactly the amount of cat food recommended by the vet, at the times of day recommended (sometimes it’s once a day, sometimes twice). Don’t leave uneaten food in Pedro’s dish; clean it out. If he begs for food between meals, don’t give it to him.

Increase Pedro’s activity wherever you can. When you’re relaxing in the front room, have him chase a feather or mouse toy. You also can buy a “puzzle feeder” that makes him work a little harder to get his food.

Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.

© 2018 King Features Synd. Inc.