Oh man, I don’t know what’s going on… My kitten, Mr. Whiskers, is starting to look a little rounder than usual, and I’m starting to get worried. He’s only about six months old, and I swear it feels like he’s eating more than my dog at this point! I usually feed him whenever he seems hungry, which seems like all the time recently, but now I’m questioning if that's too much or maybe even normal? He’s still super playful and full of energy, which makes me think he’s fine, but he doesn’t seem to have that sleek, kitten look anymore. I just don’t want to be overfeeding him and end up causing problems later. Has anyone else noticed this with their young cats, or am I just being overly concerned? Would really love some advice!
You're doing the right thing by asking about your kitten's health! It's important to be mindful of their weight, especially as they grow. Kittens are naturally a bit round due to their baby fat, but if you're worried about obesity, there are a few things you can consider.
First, take a look at your kitten's body shape. A healthy kitten generally has a visible waist when viewed from above and a slight tummy tuck when viewed from the side. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard. If your kitten seems particularly round and you can't feel their ribs, they might be carrying a bit too much weight.
Kittens typically need frequent, calorie-rich meals due to their high energy and growth rate. Ensure you're feeding high-quality kitten food that's appropriate for their age and size. Check the feeding guidelines on the packaging, which often provide a good starting point, and adjust based on your kitten's activity level and weight changes.
At home, encourage play to help them burn energy. Interactive toys or even homemade ones can be great fun for them.
Keep an eye on any signs such as unusual sluggishness, difficulty breathing, or disinterest in play, as these could indicate health issues needing a vet's attention.
For precise guidance tailored to your kitten's needs, consider a video consult with Dial A Vet to review your kitten's diet and health in detail.
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