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How do I keep my spayed cat from gaining weight after surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed

How do i help her keep a healthy weight after being spayed? She is only fed twice a day and is relitively active

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 1st, 2017

Hi there, that's a great question! As you probably know, cats tend to gain weight after being spayed/ neutered. To help prevent this, you need to feed less calories OR there is a particular food made by Royal Canin (in the USA its called "Spayed/ Neutered ") and is an ideal food to transition Goodie onto. Also if you'd like to continue with her current brand of food, change her onto the adult version instead of the kitten food. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello After being spayed dogs and cats usually have a decrease metabolic rate for the first two years. Therefore whatever is listed on the side of the food that you feed her I recommend reducing initially by 1/3 to 1/4 of the amount and seeing how your cat does. If weight still wasn't issue then you can discuss with your vet putting her on a lower calorie diet or weight restricted prescription diet.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Great question. Spaying is certainly a good choice for their overal health but it can cause their metabolism to slow down. I usually advice My clients to decrease the volume by about 10 percent after spay. Feeding canned food to cats may be healthier in the long run that dry food. Read the labels on what food you chose and base her the amount diet off of her ideal weight. Typically higher quality brands such as Royal Canin have less fillers and may require less volume than cheaper brands.

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