Take these simple steps to monitor your cat's weight
Are you a feline fancier who knows your feline well, to the point you can be considered an expert? By that, I mean, are you observant in everything they do, down to the last detail? If you are, think again.
Most of us have had a suddenly overweight feline, to the point that your veterinarian is calling your precious a "chunky monkey." The truth is, all that weight did not happen over night. The weight crept on due to your everyday lack of observation, until the problem was more than obvious.
Absent a medical problem, a weight issue can be solved by exercise, more exercise, encouraged play and a change in food and treat choices.
The opposite end of the spectrum is much harder to correct if you are not observant - that is, excessive weight loss.
So, what should you do?
Ask yourself, not counting veterinarian appointments, how often do you monitor your feline's weight? If you do monitor it, what is your methodology?
Next, do you have a general idea what the proper weight range your feline should be? You need to consider bone structure, muscle mass, body type and breed-mix. This information can be gathered from the animal's history as provided to you from your adopting animal shelter (hopefully Buddy), the history as you know it (if you have personally done the rescue) and a mix of your veterinarian's best calculations.
However, sometimes the history is not always ideal when dealing with rescues because an animal's past may be sketchy.
Knowing what you are looking for is key to weight assessment. For example, if your feline has oriental tendencies, like Siamese, the weight range would be in the lower range. A dramatic comparison to the oriental weight range would be that of a Maine coon or Norwegian mix. Just between the oriental and the sturdy feline, body weight can vary from 7-18 pounds. This weight-range comparison considers both body type variances and fur variances. Sex of the feline will also factor into the variables.
Beyond these differences, you can get a real feel for a feline's proper weight by examining its torso. When your feline is at a healthy weight, the torso is muscular. The spine and ribs will not be readily visible, but will be easily felt.
In contrast, an underweight feline will not only look skinny, but the spine and ribs will be clearly visible.
In addition to your external observations, you should weigh your feline monthly. You might be asking, "How do I attempt that challenge?" If you do not have a baby scale, an bathroom scale will work. Weigh yourself holding your feline, then without holding the animal. The difference between the two weights will be close enough to your feline's true weight.
If you track your cat's weight on a regular basis, you can avoid the shock in your veterinarian's office when you are informed of a drastic weight change. If you notice the weight creeping off, you may be able to avoid some significant medical conditions that may be costly and difficult to diagnose. Any dramatic weight loss in a feline would suggest a serious medical problem. Any simple preventive measures you can do at home to monitor your feline's health and weight only increases quality of life for your feline friend and the amount of time they will happily share our lives.
Upcoming
• The Buddy Foundation presents Photos with the Easter Bunny. Bring your pets and your children and join the fun from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, at Buddy's shelter, 65 W. Seegers Road, in Arlington Heights. Event includes raffles, egg hunt, bake sale, Adoption Eggstravaganza and photos with the Easter Bunny. $8 donation per printed photo. Proceeds benefit Buddy's animals.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a volunteer nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization with all funds directly assisting its animals. For information visit thebuddyfoundation.org or call (847) 290-5806.