Am I doing it right? *Cat dieting*

I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. My vet said I need to help Oliver lose a bit of weight, so I've been trying to follow the new feeding plan she suggested. It's been three weeks now, and I swear he's actually gained a little! I cut down his portions and switched to a healthier brand, but every morning he's meowing like he hasn’t been fed in days. I’ve also tried playing with him more in the evenings, but honestly, he just bats the toy once and walks away. Has anyone else gone through this? I’m worried I might be making things worse instead of better, and I just want my chunky little guy to be healthy. Am I missing something?

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Answer

Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Helping your cat maintain a healthy weight is really important for their overall well-being, so you're doing great by focusing on this. When it comes to cat dieting, gradual changes are key. Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden diet changes can upset their stomach.



Ensure you're feeding a balanced diet that's suitable for their age, weight, and activity level. Look at the label for a statement that the food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines. Portion control is critical, so try measuring their food using a kitchen scale or measuring cup to avoid overfeeding.



You might also incorporate some playtime. Interactive toys can turn mealtime into an engaging activity that can help with calorie burning.



Watch for signs that might indicate you're on the wrong path, such as significant weight loss in a short period, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. These could point to an underlying issue or an overly restrictive diet.



If you’re seeing any concerning signs or just need reassurance, booking a video consult with Dial A Vet can provide personalized guidance. A vet can help tailor a diet plan suited specifically for your cat’s needs.

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