The Benefits of Fresh Food for Overweight Cats

Feline obesity has become a major health problem in Switzerland, with nearly 40% of domestic cats overweight, according to a study published by swissinfo.ch . Faced with this silent epidemic, more and more owners and veterinarians are turning to a natural solution: fresh food. But what are the real benefits of fresh food for overweight cats? This comprehensive guide explains why this nutritional approach could transform your feline companion's health and quality of life.

Understanding Feline Obesity: Causes and Risks

Obesity in cats isn't just about appearance – it's a serious health problem that can significantly reduce your pet's lifespan and quality of life.

The main causes of excess weight in cats

Several factors contribute to the feline obesity epidemic in Switzerland:

• Inadequate nutrition : Traditional kibble often contains too many carbohydrates and empty calories

• Sedentary lifestyle : Particularly for indoor cats in Swiss urban environments

• Overfeeding : Many owners overestimate their cat's caloric needs.

• Genetic factors : Certain breeds such as the British Shorthair are more predisposed to being overweight.

• Sterilization : Neutered cats have a slowed metabolism and reduced energy needs

Research shows that cats fed high-carbohydrate foods may become overweight more easily than those fed diets more suited to their carnivorous nature.

Health risks associated with feline obesity

Veterinarians agree that feline obesity isn't just a cosmetic issue. It's directly linked to a number of serious diseases that can shorten your cat's lifespan.

Health risks include:

• Feline Diabetes : Obese cats are up to four times more likely to develop diabetes, according to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

• Joint problems : Arthritis and chronic pain

• Liver diseases : Hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver)

• Respiratory problems : Difficulty breathing and exercise intolerance

• Urinary problems : Increased risk of stones and infections

• Skin problems : Inability to groom properly

• Increased surgical risks : Complications during veterinary procedures

Why Fresh Food Is Great for Weight Management

Fresh food represents a nutritional approach based on the biological needs of felines to help overweight cats regain a healthy weight.

Calorie density and satiety

Unlike dehydrated kibble, fresh food:

• Naturally contains more water (70-75% compared to 10% in kibble)

• Offers more volume for the same calorie intake

• Provides a longer-lasting feeling of satiety

• Allows weight loss without feeling hungry

A University of Illinois study found that fresh foods have significantly higher digestibility than traditional dry foods, which can contribute to better nutrient utilization and potentially reduced portion sizes.

Optimal nutritional profile

Fresh cat food has a nutritional profile naturally adapted to the needs of overweight felines:

• Rich in high quality protein (35-45% on dry matter)

• Low in carbohydrates (usually less than 10%)

• Moderate content of healthy fats (balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids)

• No additives that stimulate the appetite (unlike many kibbles)

Feline nutrition experts point out that cats are obligate carnivores. Their metabolism is designed to efficiently process proteins and fats, but not the excess carbohydrates found in most processed foods.

Better digestibility and metabolism

Have you ever noticed how your cat seems more energetic after a meal of fresh food? It's no coincidence. Fresh food offers significant metabolic benefits:

• Superior digestibility (studies show 90-95% digestibility for fresh food versus lower rates for kibble)

• Less stress on the digestive system

• Better absorption of nutrients

• Reduced glycemic load , essential for cats at risk of diabetes

• Higher dietary thermogenesis (energy spent digesting food)

These combined factors create a metabolic environment conducive to healthy, sustainable weight loss.

Key ingredients in fresh food that promote weight loss

The composition of fresh food plays a crucial role in its effectiveness for cat weight management. Here are the ingredients that make the difference in Pawy recipes :

High-quality lean protein

Pawy cat recipes contain a high proportion of high-quality animal proteins:

• Premium fresh meats : >85% fresh meat from highly digestible and assimilable proteins

• Varied sources : Chicken, beef and pork selected for their nutritional quality

• Complete Amino Acid Profile : Essential for Maintaining Muscle Mass During Weight LossThese high-quality proteins maintain muscle mass during weight loss, a crucial factor often overlooked in traditional feline diets.

Beneficial vegetables and fiber

Pawy recipes incorporate carefully selected vegetables:

• Fresh vegetables : 4-6% of the recipe to provide fiber and essential vitamins

• Nutritional Varieties : Zucchini, carrots and kale chosen for their specific benefits

• Low Glycemic Index : For optimal blood sugar control, these vegetables add volume with few calories and provide fiber that promotes satiety.

Healthy fats in controlled amounts

Pawy recipes contain healthy fats in measured amounts:

• Quality sources : 1-2% fats selected for their nutritional benefits

• Optimal balance : Blend of lard, rapeseed oil and flax seeds

• Essential Fatty Acids : To Support Skin and Coat Health During Weight LossThese healthy fats, in small amounts, support skin, coat, and joint health during weight loss.

Superfoods and natural supplements

Pawy recipes are enriched with functional ingredients:

• Complete Nutritional Complex : Small amounts of targeted ingredients for specific benefits

• Digestive support : Brewer's yeast and soluble fiber for optimal digestion

• Vitamins and Minerals : Precisely dosed to meet the specific needs of overweight cats

These ingredients are carefully measured in Pawy recipes to maximize their benefits without compromising palatability.

Transition Plan: Moving from Kibble to Fresh Food

The transition to a fresh diet should be gradual, especially for overweight cats who may be more sensitive to dietary changes.

Recommended Transition Timeline

For an overweight cat used to kibble, follow this schedule:

Day	Fresh food	Usual croquettes
1-3	25%	75%
4-6	50%	50%
7-9	75%	25%
10+	100%	0%

Cat behavior experts recommend a slow transition. Transitioning too quickly can cause digestive upsets and reinforce food aversions. Patience is essential for a successful transition.

Managing common challenges

Some cats, especially those that have been used to kibble for a long time, may show resistance:

• Initial refusal : Warm fresh food slightly to release aromas

• Selective snacking : Initially blend fresh food to avoid sorting

• Insistent requests : Use vending machines for scheduled meals

• Slow Transition : For very picky cats, extend each stage by 3-4 days

Portion adjustment

For overweight cats, portion calculation is crucial:

1. Determine your cat's ideal weight (consult your veterinarian)

2. Calculate calorie needs for healthy weight loss (usually 80% of maintenance needs)

3. Weigh food rather than using volumetric measures

4. Adjust gradually based on results (loss of 1-2% of body weight per week)

Pawy offers personalized nutrition plans that automatically calculate the ideal portions for your overweight cat, taking into account their age, activity level, and weight goal.

Monitoring and maintaining ideal weight

Achieving a healthy weight is only the first step. Long-term maintenance is just as important.

Regular weight monitoring

• Weigh your cat weekly during the weight loss phase

• Switch to monthly weighing once you reach your ideal weight

• Keep a weight journal to quickly identify any concerning trends

• Always use the same scale for consistent measurements

Continuous nutritional adjustment

Once the ideal weight is reached:

• Gradually increase portions (usually by 10-15%)

• Maintain the nutritional quality of fresh food

• Continue to limit treats (no more than 10% of total calorie intake)

• Adapt diet to seasonal changes (energy needs vary)

Adapted physical activity

Exercise is an essential complement to nutrition:

• Daily play sessions (15-20 minutes, several times a day)

• Environmental enrichment (cat trees, shelves, interactive toys)

• Interactive feeding (food puzzles, dispensing toys)

• Gradual introduction of activity for very sedentary cats

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Feline Health

Fresh food is more than just a diet for overweight cats—it's a holistic approach that respects their carnivorous nature. By providing optimal nutrition with the right calorie density, it supports healthy weight loss while improving overall vitality.

The benefits go far beyond just weight loss:

• Improved digestive health

• Reducing the risk of diabetes

• Better joint health

• Shinier coat

• Increased energy

• Better hydration

• Reduction of eating-related behavioral problems

For owners concerned about the well-being of their overweight cat, fresh food is a natural and effective solution. Current scientific research increasingly supports the benefits of a fresh diet tailored to the specific needs of felines, particularly for those struggling with weight problems.

Order a personalized trial meal for your overweight cat today and see the transformation for yourself!

👉 Order here

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Sources:

1. Swiss pets are getting too chubby. SWI swissinfo.ch . (2016). https://play.swissinfo.ch/play/tv/society/video/swiss-pets-are-getting-too-chubby?urn=urn:swi:video:42007490

2. Verbrugghe, A., & Hesta, M. (2017). Cats and Carbohydrates: The Carnivore Fantasy? Veterinary Sciences, 4(4), 55. https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/4/4/55 ?

3. Scarlett, J.M., & Donoghue, S. (1998). Associations between body condition and disease in cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 212(11), 1725-1731.4. https://avmajournals.avma.org/downloadpdf/view/journals/javma/212/11/javma.1998.212.11.1725.pdf

4. Oba, PM, Utterback, PL, Parsons, CM, Swanson, KS (2019). True nutrient and amino acid digestibility of dog foods made with human-grade ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. Translational Animal Science, 3(4), https://experts.illinois.edu/en/publications/true-nutrient-and-amino-acid-digestibility-of-dog-foods-made-with

5. Laflamme, D.P. (2006). Understanding and Managing Obesity in Dogs and Cats. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 36(6), 1283-1295. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17085235/

6. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2019). Obesity. Cornell Feline Health Center. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/obesity