Why is my cat's hard, hanging belly growing? Is it a fat pad?

She is most definitely overweight (fat pad can be clearly seen in front of the back legs / below the abdomen). If she has any additional clinical signs I would recommend a blood test to help determine if the obesity is triggered by any medical condition or even if it has caused any problems such as liver issues. I strongly recommend you start a weight management programme such as hills metabolic or royal canin satiety to help reduce the weight (and with it risks of obesity, joint and inflammatory conditions linked with excess weight)

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.

Hi there, Typically this is just their fat pad. Most cats have a fat pad but some have one that is more noticeable than others. I would still have your vet her if she's acting lethargic and to make sure what you're seeing isn't something else. I hope that helps and thanks for using Pet Coach!

Many cats will develop a fat pad in their abdominal area, but Bean is a bit young for this. If the area is not hard, swollen or painful, then I would not be too concerned. Just have it looked at by your veterinarian at your earliest convenience. Take care & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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.

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!

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!