Vegan-fed cats less often reported overweight in survey
Reported by Phys.org · October 23 at 2:30 PM · Summary by Pawdeck
An online survey of 1,305 cats found that caregivers reported overweight in 3.1% of cats fed vegan diets (4 of 127) versus 4.1% of cats fed conventional meat-based diets (48 of 1,178). The gap was not statistically significant, and the researchers did not examine the cats or verify their diets.
Background
Cat overweight is common, and excess weight is linked to arthritis, diabetes and urinary tract disease. Survey results rely on owners' reports of veterinary assessments, so they can show associations but cannot establish that a diet causes a difference in body weight.
Why it matters
Weight problems in cats are common and can affect joints, metabolism and quality of life, so owners weighing diet choices should rely on evidence from controlled studies.
What you can do
If you are considering a vegan diet for your cat, talk with your veterinarian first and choose a commercial food formulated to be nutritionally complete. Keep track of your cat's body condition and weight over time.
Written by Pawdeck from the report by Phys.org. Background is general information, not advice about your pet; if you are worried, call your vet.
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