LAS VEGAS, Sept. 1, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Each year, Las Vegas veterinarians diagnose more weight associated disorders in cats. Overweight, plump cats are more prone to develop a number of health problems. Dr. Trish Auge of A Cat Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada encourages cat owners to learn more about what and how much your cat needs to eat.
There are many pet food companies trying to convince us that their food is better, healthier, has less fillers, no preservatives, and no grain or gluten. There are numerous flavors, many types of treats, selling points of hairball, dental, urinary, or indoor cat formulas. No one has all the answers since in the wild, cats feast on birds, mice, insects, and lizards. Too much food and too little exercise leads to tubby tabbies which can develop serious health risks.
Among these risks are breathing problems, strain on the heart because it has to work harder to pump blood with the excess weight leading to hidden heart failure, and fatty liver disease. Plumpish cats have difficulty grooming and develop matting and skin problems, as well as joint problems that lead to pain and inactivity; a vicious cycle. Another serious risk for portly cats is feline diabetes and the rates have skyrocketed.
Dr. Trish remarks on the several symptoms cat or kittens will have if they are developing diabetes. There will be an increase in water consumption, an increase in urination, as well as wanting to eat more. Their coats can become dull and dry, and they can become sluggish.
Cats are often so bored that their attention turns to food. Dr. Trish said that cat owners need to engage in more exercise with their felines just as many people take the dog for a daily walk. A pudgy cat will look forward to a new routine of play. Use a dangly toy on a pole that looks like a fishing pole, roll a ball, use a laser light, and catnip toys. Cats that are already overweight and sedentary can be a challenge to get moving. Dr. Trish suggests creating a routine by using these toys along with the cat tree or building some wall shelves or tunnels for the cat to climb.
Dr. Trish and the other veterinary staff want cat owners to be proactive, and deter the possibility of their tubby tabbies having health problems. The veterinarians at A Cat Hospital want to see cat owners have a happy and healthy kitty cat. To learn more information about feline diabetes and other tubby tabby cat problems and how to prevent them, visit A Cat Hospital's website at www.acathospital.com.