Recent studies reveal that 40% of America’s pets are overweight. Just like excess pounds can inhibit and damage the health of humans, it can also cause problems in animals. Some of these problems include diabetes, arthritis, and liver disease.

The causes of obesity in cats are numerous, but very often include poor diet, lack of activity, and genetics, or a combination of all three. Some illnesses can cause weight gain, but diet and exercise (or lack thereof) are the most common culprits.

If you have a chubby Siamese, the first thing to remember that crash diets don’t work. You’ll have to change things gradually or risk a whole lot of digestive problems or behavioral problems in your feline friend. Rather than leaving food out all day for your cat to graze on whenever she wants, feed her small portions twice a day and take away the uneaten portion. This will limit her food intake to a healthy level and will get rid of all-day snacking.

Try to implement some kind of exercise routine each day, even if it consists of chasing a ball or rubber mouse around the room for five minutes each evening. While you might not be successful in getting your kitty to jog around the block with you, a little bit of activity can go a long way.

Finally, if your cat has a serious weight problem, make sure to consult your veterinarian before starting any kind of new regimen. Find out whether a change in food is necessary, or ask for additional ideas to help you get your kitty’s physique back to the sleek thing she used to be.