My cat is heavy and struggles with stairs. How do I manage his food?

Question

My cat (Storm) seems like he has trouble getting up the stairs. I don't know if it is just his fur fluffing out or if he is gaining weight but he is feeling a little heavy when I carry him. I have been trying to portion his food better but it is difficult. I have another cat (Mouse) and Storm eats out of her bowl and his own bowl. How can I correct this so he does not become overweight? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 4 years and 3 months old | 10 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

Trouble going up the stair may be arthritis or some other orthopedic problem (yes, even at 4 year of age). If he is truly 12 pounds that is a pretty normal weight for a cat and should not cause him problems going up the stairs. I suggest you have him to your vet for an exam. As for the feeding: I suggest you meal feed the cats and put them in different rooms to eat. Measure out their food, give them 10 minutes to eat and then pick up the bowls. Offer food 2-4 times per day - whatever you can do based on your schedule. Remember, to measure the food and only give the recommended DAILY amount broken up into however many meals you are going to feed. Hope this helps. If you have more questions you can always opt for a private consultation where we can chat back and forth. That way you can ask as many questions as you'd like. Best wishes.

My cat is heavy and struggles with stairs. How do I manage his food?

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