Weight management in client-owned cats fed a high protein – low carbohydrate maintenance diet

Introduction

According to several studies worldwide, around 1 out of 2 cats are overweight or obese.^1-2 Specific weight loss diets, formulated on a low energy - high fibre concept, are frequently poorly palatable and often perceived as too burdensome and too restrictive by pet owners, who thus simply give up on these diets.³ There is therefore a need for non-restrictive palatable diets which could help cats lose weight in a “softer way”.

Animals, materials and methods

During 8 weeks, 20 overweight adult neutered cats were given a new dry maintenance diet with a high protein and low carbohydrate content (Table 1). 0.5 to 1% weight loss per week was targeted. Individual daily rations were calculated each week, based on the energy requirement estimated at 0.8 x 0.8 x 60 x BW (BW: body weight being recorded weekly).4 A General Linear Mixed Model (factors: fixed (time), random (cat)) was used to test weight loss between weeks, with a 5% significance level.

Results

15 out of 20 cats completed the study. Despite the absence of rationing and the distribution of treats by most of the owners, 67% of these cats lost weight and 50% had a visibly slimmer silhouette. The effect of the diet was fast with a significant weight loss as soon as week 1, and a mean weight loss of 1.2% per week (Fig. 1 & Table 2). 80% of cats appreciated the tested diet according to their owners, and 73% of pet owners were ready to buy this diet or would recommend it to friends.

Conclusions

This new high protein – low carbohydrate maintenance diet resulted in a gradual weight loss. This “soft” way to lose weight and the good palatability, which may be due to the high animal protein content^4,5, are probably the key points that can explain the good satisfaction rate among owners regarding the tested diet.

^{References: 1) APOP. National pet obesity awareness day survey 2012 ; 2) Courcier EA et al. J Fel Med Surg 2010 ; 3) Bissot T et al. J Fel Med Surg 2012 ; 4) FEDIAF Nutritional Guidelines for complete and complementary pet foods for cats and dogs 2013 ; 5) Zoran D. JAVMA 2002 ; 6) MacDonald M & Roger Q. Ann Rev Nutr 1984}