Hefty Kitty

[globug92000]

I posted this about an hour ago, but I see it didn't make it. I'll try to shorten the story. I've posted about Maggie in the past, but am updating the diet situation. She's 19 lbs, vet changed her to Feline RD from Hairball Light about 2 months or so ago. She gets a cup/day (half in am and half in pm). Eats NO other food. I picked her up from Vet's yesterday (grooming appt) and she has not lost a single ounce. He suggested last month's appt that we might consider switching to Feline MD; He said it was similiar to Atkins diet, low carb, high protein. She's almost 7 years old and normal BUN and Creatinine. I'm concerned about potential for renal problems with such a high protein diet. Vet said Thyroid panel is about $98.00, but price isn't a concern if I need to do that. He said it was up to me, but I'd rather have advice about it. What do you think about 1)Feline MD 2) Thyroid test Thanks!! Gloria

[Traci]

If it were me, I'd opt for a thyroid panel first, then you would at least have peace of mind if thyroid function is normal. I would also check around with other vets in your area for comparing prices on the thyroid panel, 98.00 seems pretty high for thyroid only (unless of course this included a full chemistry profile, which would then justify the cost)

If the thyroid is normal, then I would consider one of the other veterinary diets, not neccessarily M/D. You are right to be concerned about the high protein, and the M/D is designed to alter metabolism, whereas the R/D is designed to reduce calories yet maintain body mass. Check out our Dietary Pages for more options (i.e, Purina OM).

What type of activity/exercise do you encourage for her? Ideally, at least 10 minutes spent each day with exercise would help with weight loss and management.....toys, chasing string or feather toys, etc.

[globug92000]

Thanks, Traci, I'll schedule her for thryoid test next week and we'll go from there. I'll also check out the dietary pages. Maggie doesn't exercise for longer than a couple of minutes at a time (although she always wants me to play with her or feed her). She has exercise-induced asthma, so it's a catch 22. Fat for not exercising much (as well as whatever else contributes to her obesity eg thyroid, genetics? etc), breathing problems could be exacerbated by being so fat. We'll start out with the thyroid test. I appreciate your comments! Gloria

[ctmorris]

Personally I'd be suprised if it is a thyroid condition - kitties have a natural disposition towards Hyperthyroid rather than hypo.. Your kitty might have the early signs of being diabetic..

I too have a fat kitty - and in her case - as in just some kitties (like people) metabolisms aren't all the same..

Hang in there - you might want to ask about OM food by Purina - it's what my fatty is on - and at least she hasn't gained any weight..

C.