Be the change ... for big kitties everywhere

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) shared some BIG data with us-because cats benefit when everyone is spreading the message about the dangers of feline obesity. 

Big Kitty

Obesity in cats has been linked to many health concerns, such as diabetes, liver and heart disease.

57.6% of the 95.6 million cats in the U.S. are considered overweight or obese.

As little as 2lbs above a cat's ideal weight can put them at risk for:

> diabetes

> high blood pressure

> heart and respiratory disease

> kidney and liver disease

> many forms of cancer

> osteoarthritis

> decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years)

> and more.

Routine checkups are vital because weight, nutrition and play are discussed and assessed by a veterinarian at each yearly check-up. Remind clients that if visits are stressful, there are resources! 

Here's how to make the carrier a cat's friend, not foe.

This client handout explains how to habituate a cat to a carrier.

Here are 4 tips on bringing a cat into the veterinarian.

And here's a list of cat friendly practices from the AAFP.