Summer is just around the corner, and that means: more sun, longer days... and for many cats, less movement. While we might be busy with summer plans or even working on a summer body, your cat is mostly just chilling. But is it really that harmless? Especially in the summer, many cats move a bit less. They nap more, lie in the shade more often, and as a result, gain weight more quickly. In this blog, you'll discover how to tell if your cat is carrying a few extra pounds, why it can be a problem, and what you can do to help your fluffball stay fit through the summer.
Your cat might not be going on a crash diet for the beach, but its belly does wobble a bit when it walks
Is my cat just fluffy… or a little bit chubby?
Some cat breeds like the Siberian cat or the British Shorthair naturally have a full coat. But that sometimes makes it difficult to see whether your cat is just fluffy… or really too fat.
Unsure? Here is a simple check:
❌Can you barely or not at all feel their ribs? Then there is probably a layer of fat over them.
❌Is their belly a bit rounded and hanging? That is not only cute, but also a signal.
❌Does he jump or run less than before? Weight can literally get in his way.
A visit to the vet will of course provide certainty. But your own observations are often already a good first step
With cats, every gram counts: 500 grams of overweight in your cat is equivalent to about 7 kilos in yourself
Overweight: the silent danger among all fluff
A little extra weight can be harmless, but for many cats it can quickly become harmful. They are small, move less, and cannot express their discomfort in words.
Risks of overweight in cats include:
- Diabetes
- Joint problems & osteoarthritis
- Less energy
- Shorter life expectancy
⚠️ And note: cats should never lose a lot of weight all at once. A crash diet can lead to liver problems. It's all about
gradual change.
Like us, cats get warm faster in the summer. Extra exercise should therefore be playful and light, not forced
5 simple things you can do today already
Good news: it doesn't have to be a big adjustment. With the following tips, you can already make a small difference:
- Measured portions -- Use a feeding scoop and adjust the amount according to weight and age.
- Easily digestible food-- Choose food with less fat, specially tailored for sterilized
or indoor cats. Think of food based on chicken or turkey, with extra
fibers (such as psyllium or beet pulp) for good digestion. - Play sessions spread throughout the day-- Preferably 3 times a day 5 minutes of active play rather than one long session.
Think: laser pointer, fishing rod, or just chasing a crumpled piece of paper. - Smart snacking – Replace treats with some kibbles from his daily portion or use feeding puzzles.
- Hide some snacks – Let him "work" for his food by hiding it in a cardboard box or
sniffing mat.
💡If you have any doubts, feel free to ask your veterinarian for advice – they are happy to help you think about what is best for your cat.
+ Bonus: give it more climbing options
More climbing = more movement
Your cat trusts that you will take care of him even when he can't say that his body feels heavier, or that jumping no longer works like it used to.
🗳️ We asked cat parents just like you…
How fit is your cat?
Here’s what they said:
🐾 An athlete – 17%
🍽 Only moves for food – 46%
🍩 Fluffy (but like... not really) – 29%
😴 No clue – 8%
Fit and cheerful into the summer
With a few small adjustments in diet & routine, you can keep your cat's weight under control. No stress, no complicated diets, just conscious choices that fit your daily rhythm.
This way, you not only give your cat a summer body, but above all: an energetic, healthy, and happy life.
1 reaction
Super handig om te weten!