Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/19/2005

Question
I have a fat cat.she got fat after being spayed. I've tried diet food (Iams) and exercise, but the only part of her that's gotten smaller is her head.I know she has a ribcage, but I can't feel it! Her vet says she's on her way to becoming diabetic, and I just don't know how to help her anymore.Any advice?  

Answer
There are not many commercial foods for weight loss in cats.  Most of them are weight maintenance.  Ask your vet to calculate how much R/D (reducing diet) or OM (Obesity Mangement) food to feed your cat for its ideal weight.  YOu can expect about a 2% weight loss each month until the cat reaches the ideal weight.