How can I help my cat lose weight?

Does your cat have an apron of fat where his figure-eight waist ought to be? When a feline becomes obese, all that weight becomes a threat to his health and longevity. So if your precious puss is packing on the pounds, stop that trend in its tracks. Liz Rozanski is a veterinarian at Tufts University.

Most successful weight loss programs are early identification of a pet at risk, and then being very conscientious with it – working with your veterinarian or one of the nurses at the practice, making sure you really understand what's happening from a nutritional standpoint.

Your veterinarian will help you devise a diet that meets your cat's needs. And make sure to play with that pudgy kitty – regular exercise will help him shed the weight.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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