{"id":1743,"date":"2019-11-14T18:56:08","date_gmt":"2019-11-14T18:56:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.summeridgeanimalclinic.com\/blog\/?p=1743"},"modified":"2021-11-29T16:05:09","modified_gmt":"2021-11-29T16:05:09","slug":"helping-your-indoor-cat-lose-weight","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.summeridgeanimalclinic.com\/blog\/helping-your-indoor-cat-lose-weight\/","title":{"rendered":"Helping Your Indoor Cat Lose Weight"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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For pets and people alike, it\u2019s often easier to keep the weight off than to lose it. Even a few extra pounds can lead to disastrous consequences to a pet\u2019s health and longevity. Weight loss diets can be difficult to maintain, and indoor cats<\/a> have the added challenge of perhaps not being as active as other pets may be. 
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Indoor cat weight loss can be tricky, but Summeridge Animal Clinic<\/a> has some tips and tricks to help you get started!
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The Dangers of Obesity in Pets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Over half the pet population in North America is overweight or obese<\/a>. And the perils of pet obesity are becoming more commonly understood. Diseases like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and cancer are common side effects of being overweight. Overweight pets live shorter lives and often have diminished quality of life as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Basics of Helping Your Indoor Cat Lose Weight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Weight gain occurs when an individual consumes more calories than they burn off. Many indoor cats live sedentary lives, and eat energy-dense food. Fewer opportunities for exercise and the availability of regular meals and snacks may be more damaging than you think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start Here<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although it seems simple, difficulties with weight loss may have roots in diseases that can affect the metabolism. Before you embark on helping your indoor cat lose weight, it\u2019s a good idea to first have them seen by your veterinarian to rule out any disease. Together, we can establish a simple and effective weight loss program from there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Up The Ante<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although restricting unnecessary calories is the cornerstone of weight loss, the process can be supported by increasing activity. Preserving muscle mass and increasing metabolism are two other benefits of exercise<\/a>. 
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How to exercise your indoor cat? Think like a lion! Give them opportunities to use their natural instincts, and you\u2019ll foster a desire to move more. 
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Try: 
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