Expert: Tomay - 6/18/2005

Question
I have 2 cats. One is VERY overweight and the other is not. I have them on a feeding schedule of 1/2 cup once a day. My overweight cat meows consistantly and wants more. My husband and I can't not walk through the house without him meowing and running to the food dish. Everytime we get up from a chair he thinks we are going to feed he. He licks both bowls clean every night, we feed him hard food (nothing to lick up). I tried to put them on a 1/4 cup twice a day schedule but it was twice as bad as before. Now he is becoming mean and attacks the other cat. The other cat is fine with the schedule and seems quite content, except for getting attacked every now and then. What can we do?

Answer
Hello Michelle and thank you for your inquiry.
While my field of expertise is primarily grooming and coat care, I can offer you my thoughts on the feeding dilemma you have.  Perhaps you could start feeding a 'light' formula, like Precise cat foods, or similar premium diets. You may find further information from your vet, as he is familiar with the cats. As for the  attacks with the other cat, that may be a question better answered by a cat behaviouralist.  If there is not one locally, search online.
Good luck and thank you,
Tomay