How to Help a Skinny Cat Gain Weight?

Cats are stubborn and picky, but all of them need good, healthy food to thrive. However, there are times when a cat refuses to eat, and you wonder what to do to help it gain weight. Below are some of our suggestions to help your cats put on weight.

1. Rule out health issues
   If you notice your cat losing weight, the first thing you should do is rule out any health problems. In this case, it’s important to consult a veterinarian if you see a lack of appetite or weight loss, as all your efforts to help your cat gain weight will be in vain if it turns out the cat is sick.
2. Provide a healthy and nutritious diet
   All cats need a mix of healthy meat proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats. Make sure your cat has an adequate and nutritious diet to help it gain weight. Don’t expect your cat to gain weight if you’re not providing a balanced diet every day. By investing in proper nutrition, you will not only maintain the correct weight but also save on vet visits.
3. Adjust your cat’s feeding schedule
   Many cats prefer eating several small meals throughout the day. It’s a good idea to create a regular feeding schedule for your cat. If you’re busy with work or other responsibilities, consider investing in an automatic cat feeder that ensures your furry friend has access to food throughout the day. Before you begin feeding, review portioning recommendations and, if necessary, adjust them to fit your pet’s needs.
4. Ensure a constant supply of fresh, cool water
   When planning your cat’s meals, think about variety, not just taste. You can alternate between dry food and food with added moisture, like canned treats or pouches. That’s why it’s crucial to provide fresh, clean water. For many cats, water that has been sitting for several hours is no longer suitable for drinking, and they may avoid their bowl until it’s refilled with fresh water. Also, clean and wipe the water bowl several times a week to remove bacteria. The more often, the better!
5. Mix dry and wet food
   
   
   
   Include both dry and wet food in every meal. Wet food contains a lot of moisture and thus adds more flavor and nutritional value compared to dry food. If your cat has been avoiding dry food for a while, try mixing in some wet food, and you’ll likely see a difference in their eating habits.
6. Offer treats occasionally
   Extra snacks during the day not only provide excellent nourishment but also significantly boost your cat’s appetite. This will encourage your cat to eat more and gain weight. Treats come in various forms, shapes, and flavors. Since you know your pet’s lifestyle and preferences best, use this knowledge when choosing treats. Feed them several times a day to give your cat extra energy and nutritious snacks.
7. Play with your cat
   If your cat sleeps all day and seems lazy, give it more attention and time. Active calorie-burning during play will lead to the need to replenish energy through food. Don’t forget to feed your cat right after playtime to encourage regular and natural eating. A good practice is to create a routine so the cat knows exactly when feeding time is, such as right after play.
8. Regularly deworm your cat
   Before giving deworming pills, consult with a vet, but it’s recommended to check your cat regularly for internal parasites if they’re losing weight. These pills will eliminate any potential parasites, which often lead to weight loss and prevent cats from gaining weight.
9. Always seek advice from a veterinarian
   Sudden weight loss in a cat can be life-threatening. Even if you haven’t noticed significant weight loss, but your cat is eating normally and not gaining weight, it could be a sign of a problem. Especially if you’ve followed the steps above and haven’t seen positive results. However, you can be sure that with these steps, your cat will gain weight once any health issues, worms, etc. are ruled out.