My cat's belly is big. Is she just fat, or is it a health issue?

It is common for larger/overweight cats to develop a large fat pad in this area; this can occasionally become damaged/infected and painful. I recommend you ask your vet tech to check the area and advise if any further tests or biopsy s required. If he is overweight for his size, they can also advise on wiehgt management options to prevent further complications such as joint disease and diabetes

Cats can get overweight from eating too much and get a fat belly, but I wouldn't say it's normal. I would say it's unhealthy to have a fat belly. Being overweight can predispose cats to many health issues including joint problems, diabetes, and cardiac disease. I would have Ernie seen by a vet on Monday for a health check. The vet can confirm that he is overweight and can discuss a diet plan for him.

Hi there. Without being able to examine him, it's hard to say if this is a problem or not. I can tell you that it's normal for cats to have a fat pad that dangles down from their abdomen, between their rear legs - so if this sounds like what you're seeing, then it's likely not a problem but he would need an exam to know for sure. If you're seeing something different, then I don't know what it would be, and would definitely recommend having him checked by a veterinarian when you are able to.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your cat. He will need to see a veterinarian to determine if he is overweight or if he is experiencing a medical problem such as parasites or fluid pooling in his abdomen. His veterinarian will examine him and feel his belly. Depending on his exam findings, x-rays may be recommended. I hope this information helps!

I see what you mean about the fur loss. I'm wondering if his belly getting fat is because he doesn't go outside anymore. When he was outside, he would have been more active, burning more calories. Because he lives indoors now, he won't be as active, so he won't be burning as many calories, leading him to gain weight. You should speak to his vet about cutting back his food to help him lose weight. The fur loss may be normal, my cat's belly looks just like that as well but I'd still have it checked out by a vet to be safe. I hope this helps.

Worms can cause abdominal distention. Some pets can also have a very slow metabolism and she may be taking in too many calories. I recommend to have her stool checked for worms and a physical exam. The doctor can calculate exactly how many calories she needs to achieve a healthy weight based upon her body structure of it’s not parasites. I hope this helps.

HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The extra skin that hangs from the bellies of cats is VERY common! I swear it happens to most cats after they are spayed or neutered. Even lean cats have a little bit. But yes it can be a sign of being overweight. Based on your photo, maybe Luka is a little overweight. But even having him lose weight won't change the skin that hangs! Just poke it for fun!