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Expert: - 6/30/2009


Question
i have a one and a half year old male domestic shorthair.He doesnt seem to be gaining any weight yet at the same time he isnt losing any.He eats really good and well. My concern is that he seems to be smaller in size than i would think he should be.He has not been neutered yet and was wondering if that had something to do with his weight,or is it because of his young age stil,and was wondering what a good weight for him should be.

Answer
Hi Daniel,

Cats come in all sizes and weights. There is no norm for them. I have 4 Tabbys who range in size and weight from 6 lbs to 24 lbs. If he is eating normally then he most likely is his right size. Neutering him may cause him to gain some weight. It won't have him grow though. You should get him neutered because of other problems, (spraying for one), that can occur.

If you feel he may be under sized and want to try something read this link. http://catinfo.org/index.htm
It is from a vet who goes into depth about cat foods and the nutrition that cats need. It is very interesting and may help you. 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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