Meet Princess Chunk, a 44-Pound Cat

A 44-pound feline was discovered wandering through a New Jersey apartment complex on July 25. "Princess Chunk" was just 2 pounds shy of the 1987 Guinness World Record holder, a tabby in Australia who weighted 46 pounds, 15 ounces. Camden County Animal Control was unable to fit the chubby cat in a regular feline carrier, instead putting her in a larger-sized dog carrier.

Despite the heavy press coverage on the fat cat, no one has claimed Princess Chunk, who was brought to the Camden County Animal Shelter as a stray. The Camden County Animal Shelter will put the fat cat up for adoption on Saturday if she remains unclaimed. The portly pussycat has already received 5 or 6 adoption applications.

Currently Princess Chunk is staying with in a foster parent, and her foster mother hopes to change the cat's eating and exercising habits. The fat feline gets only wet and dry cat food, and doesn't receive any scraps from the dinner table, a likely cause of Princess Chunk's flab. In addition, the foster family will fit her with a dog harness and take her out on walks to help her slim down. She currently hides in the bathroom to escape all the media attention she's received.

Currently the Camden County Animal Shelter wants to resolve the cause for Princess Chunk's obesity, whether it comes from a thyroid condition, diabetes or just overfeeding. The shelter won't perform any tests until the end of the 7-day holding period required by New Jersey law (so owners have the opportunity to reclaim their missing pets). Princess Chunk is reportedly in good shape so the Camden Animal Shelter has ruled out animal cruelty.

Obesity in cats (and dogs) is on the rise; approximately 40% of domestic cats are overweight. While chubby cats and dogs may appear cute, their obesity can be detrimental to their health, often leading to diabetes, arthritis and other health problems. In order to help your pet from becoming another Princess Chunk, check with your vet to confirm whether or not your cat is truly obese and if the cause of its obesity is related to simple consumption or is the result of a heart or thyroid condition. Your vet can also help you map out an eating and exercise program for your overweight pet.

In the meantime, let's hope that Princess Chunk finds a loving home soon!