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My cat gained weight after spaying. Why is she always hungry now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 2 years and 6 months old | 12 lbs

My female cat mittens who is 2 years old, I just got her fixed at the beginning of June. Mind you she was a very petite cat. Well gradually she started gaining quite a bit of weight since shes been fixed, I know cats gain weight but Im just not sure if I am over reacting but she seems like shes gaining alot. I feed her purina pro plan wet food and hard food, the weight management and the essentials. She also acts like she is starving and is meowing more for food. I just dont understand why.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 5th, 2022

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. On average, most normal sized cats should be between 8 and 12 pounds. Any cat over 12 pounds (unless it is a large breed cat like a Maine Coon) would be considered overweight. So, Mittens is at the high end of the range already. Based on the photos she does look to be overweight. Due to her body frame I would say 10-11 pounds would be a more ideal weight for her. You just need to cut back on her food. Typically wet food is very high in calories so I suggest you cut that way back or stop giving it all together. My recommendation would be to work with your vet on weight loss if you attempt to get her to lose weight and she doesn't. Sometimes a prescription weight loss diet is needed. Many cats are just vocal - it doesn't mean they are hungry. If you give in to her every time she begs you she will continue to gain weight. Many times it is not food they are after is that they are getting something from you (it's like a type of bonding). You many have to get her an automatic feeder so she does not associate you with food. Hope this. helps. Best wishes.

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