A Pet Sitter's Guide to Caring for an Obese Cat

An obese cat may look cute and cuddly, but it is a ticking time bomb. Cats in this condition are at an increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and a host of other diseases. As a pet sitter, you are responsible for properly caring for the unique needs of an obese cat.

Stick to the Cat's Diet

An obese cat is likely to be on a strict diet when you take on the job. It is important to carefully follow the veterinarian's guidelines and to stick with the prescribed amount of food for the cat by measuring out the precise amount of food the cat needs each day.

Obese cats that live with healthier cats are often fed different cat food. Keep to the owner's and veterinarian's recommendations by making sure the obese cat eats its own food. This usually involves feeding the cats in separate locations. Do not let the cat's howls for more food convince you to give him any more to eat. Just remember how the cat got to be this big to begin with!

Encourage Light Exercise

If the obese cat's idea of exercise involves walking from its bed to the food bowl and then back to bed again, you will have to think up an effective strategy that includes regular exercise during your visits. While inside cats are generally more sedentary than dogs, even an obese cat can be persuaded to engage in some light forms of exercise.

Use a piece of string or a shoelace to entice the cat. Hold it just out of the cat's reach and then pull it along the floor slowly until the cat starts to follow. Repeat this several times until the cat starts moving and playing with the string.

Avoid Cat Treats

Cat treats will not usually do any harm to cats, but if you are caring for an obese cat it is best to avoid cat treats altogether. Reward the cat with praise and attention rather than cat treats when he is affectionate or sits on your lap. Using food to reward obese cats is not a good idea, as the animal will come to expect it every time he rolls over or purrs while you are stroking him.

Pet sitters who are caring for an obese cat should make sure they take extra care of the cat's health, which can help them to lose weight and lead a healthier lifestyle. If the cat is on a strict diet, they should adhere closely to the diet and encourage the cat to engage in light exercise. Avoiding cat treats can also help an obese cat.