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My young cat is overweight. How can I help him lose weight safely?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Wirehair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 14 lbs

My cat is over weight he is 14 pouds and is not an adult yet what should I do

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2018

Hello. Just like with people, the key to weight loss & control is fewer calories in, & burning more calories with exercise. There are many weight control & metabolic type diets for cats ( check the line of Science Diet diets on this site ). Make sure you do not free feed or leave food out all day for Keanu. Feed him measured amount 2 or 3 times a day, only feeding him the amount recommended on the bag for his ideal weight. In other words, you will feed him as if he already weighs 10-11 pounds. Makes sure he is exercising with toys, laser pointers, feathers, etc. If he is home alone for much of the day, they make treat toys that release a few pieces of kibble when the toy is batted around ( The treats should be counted as part of his total daily intake ). Weight can come off of a cat, but it is tougher since you can not just take him for a run. Just be diligent & have patience. It will take time. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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