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Cats/Cat Weight Issue

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Expert: - 1/28/2008


Question
Here are the facts:

I have a 7 y/o cat who weighs 17 lbs.
I have a 2 y/o cat who weighs 13 lbs.

Eight months ago I had to move into a fourth floor apt and they are no longer able to go outside. They've become bored and lazy (like their owner). Before we moved they were 12 and 10 lbs respectively. I am having a really hard time getting them to play as they hate it here and are depressed. I know what can happen to overweight cats and it would kill me if they got sick and I knew I did it to them.
I currently feed them Purina Cat Chow for Indoor cats. I'm on a VERY tight budget. I offer them plenty of clean water at ALL times.
Can you tell me how much, and when I should feed them (I'm able to feed them separately, as the 7 y/o is a HOG)  Also... the 2 y/o has vomiting issues w/ hairballs and I often have to give her the hairball remedy in a tube. Please help with any advice you can offer.

Worried Kitty Mom In CT

Answer
Hi Amanda,

Read the outside of the bag. It should tell you how much a cat should be getting. Then I would split the amount up and feed them twice a day. Once in the morning and again in the evening. And feeding them separate is a good idea. If you ever get in a better spot money wise move them up to Purina One. It's a little better than what they are getting now. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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