If your kitty has been underweight recently, it's important to address this issue as quickly as possible so they stay happy and healthy. Being underweight means their body is not getting everything it needs which can lead to chronic illness, fatigue, and other issues.
Here are my tips on bringing your kitty up to the proper weight!
The Proper Diet
Surprisingly, my recommended diet for an underweight cat is the same diet I would recommend for an overweight cat! Every cat needs a delicate balance of vitamins and nutrients, so feeding them a properly balanced diet will allow their body to bring itself to a healthy weight naturally.
I recommend a species-appropriate, properly balanced fresh food diet. This can be a fresh frozen raw or fresh gently cooked diet, but it should have a high level of proteins, healthy fats, and the proper ratio of carbs, vitamins, and minerals.
Why This Works
It may seem like you should be giving your cat extra food to make up the weight, but that doesn’t mean that the weight they gain will be healthy weight. By feeding them the optimum ratio of carbs, proteins, nutrients, and fats, you’re giving their body the chance to find their perfectly balanced weight.
A steady diet also will allow your kitty to develop good muscle tone and the proper ratio of body fat, so it’s important to consult with a nutritionist or research on your own to find out exactly what your kitty needs.
Break Up Their Meals
Instead of offering one large meal a day, it is a better option to provide three or four small meals instead. This type of feeding schedule mimics the natural diet of cats in the wild; they usually eat a few small catches throughout the day rather than one giant feast.
Splitting up their meals into smaller chunks allows for easier digestion, and also ensures that your kitty friend receives adequate nutrition over an extended period of time rather than in one serving. Create a routine that works best for both you and your cat!
