How much should your cat weigh?
The weight of cats can vary depending on gender, breed, and age. On average, a normal weight for cats is about 3.5 to 5.5 kg. However, there are also breeds like the Maine Coon, for example, that can weigh up to 10 kilos, which is completely normal for them. Ideally, you should familiarize yourself with your cat's breed and orient yourself to the breed-specific weight. If you are unsure, just ask a veterinarian.
Recognizing your cat's overweight: 3 steps
If you are unsure about your cat's breed and cannot ask a veterinarian, there are a few tests you can perform on your cat. Whether your cat is overweight or in top shape can be checked in 3 steps:
1. You can no longer feel the ribs: When palpating your cat, you should be able to feel the ribs slightly. If they are very prominent and also visible, your cat is too thin. If they are surrounded by a thick layer of fat, your cat may be overweight.
2. A waist shape is not recognizable: When viewed from above, your cat's figure should suggest an hourglass shape. Thus, the waist should be the narrowest part of the body, although not too narrow. If the hip bones are visible, your cat is too thin. If no waist shape is recognizable at all, your cat probably has too much weight.
3. The belly swings back and forth: For many cats, the belly swings back and forth while walking. This may seem almost normal to us, but it is actually a sign that your cat is overweight. From above, your cat's belly should not protrude too much at the sides.
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Ist deine Katze nicht schwanger, aber der Bauch deutlich zu sehen, könnte das ein Anzeichen für Übergewicht sein.
Is your cat too thin?
But even if your cat weighs too little, that is not good. Underweight in cats can arise from various causes such as during →heat, stress, dental problems, or parasites. If you notice that your cat suddenly loses weight, you should consult a veterinarian. Sometimes it is just a phase, but it should not last.
You can recognize your cat's underweight by the following features:
- You can feel the ribs and part of the spine strongly when petting.
- The waist is very visible or pronounced.
- The abdominal wall is tight and has little to no belly fat.
Is your cat not eating and losing weight? Don't worry! Take a look at our →article on food refusal in cats** and find out what could be causing it.
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Freigänger-Katzen haben mehr Bewegung und sind deswegen meist schlanker.
Good food & sufficient exercise for optimal weight
If your cat is too thin or too fat, it can have health consequences. Achieving and maintaining the ideal weight for your pet is not a problem with the right food, the appropriate →amount of food, and sufficient exercise.
A [→healthy and species-appropriate diet](/magazin/katzen/katze-ernaehrung/richtige-und-gesunde-katzenernaehrung) for a cat consists of food with high-quality ingredients and without unnecessary additives like grains, sugar, or flavoring agents. But it should not only be healthy, it should also taste delicious. For cats with special needs, such as increased weight, we offer a specially tailored solution: Our →food for overweight cats helps your beloved pet stay fit while still enjoying their meals. Pets Deli wet food, dry food, or BARF is packed with good ingredients and brings joy to your pet's bowl!
Extra viel Fleisch, frei von Getreide & Zucker sowie für Allergiker geeignet
In addition to food, exercise also plays an important role. Many house cats tend to be overweight. You are at work all day, and your kitty is therefore often alone and sleeping? In the evening, she is then pampered with a few treats, and the extra pounds are already a given. Instead of just stuffing her with cookies, →engage with her a bit! Teach her a few →cool tricks, buy her exciting cat toys, or create some food search games for her. This is not only good for her figure but also strengthens the bond between you!
