Recently I took my solid black cat named Salem to the vet. It was nothing series- just a check up and getting his flea preventive. But during his normal procession of checking his vitals and ears the Vet pointed out that he was pushing 14 pounds. An average indoor cat should way 7-12 pounds, according to my Vet and Vet Nutrition.

I never really saw Salem as a fat boy. That slick black coat seems to hide it pretty well. Plus, I thought it was normal for cats to put on weight after they get fixed.

Ginger's Cat, Salem Credit: Ginger
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Well, the vet didn't like it and now he is on a limited diet and needs exercise. Personally, the Vet and I bonded over how cute chubby cats are, but it of course isn't good for their overall health. According to Vet Nutrition, obesity in felines could lead to diseases like diabetes, cancer, and skin problems. So if you are in the same boat I am with a chubby feline here are a few ways to get the exercise process going.

First thing, get a measuring cup. My sweet chubby Salem is only allowed 156 calories a day. This is the plan my vet got him on so that he can reach his goal of 10 pounds rather than 14.

Next, get the cat moving. Soon after visiting the vet I went to the store to see what I can use to make him more active. I, of course, got a red laser which he has now sworn as his enemy for life. I got one of those feathers on a stick. He isn't really into it that much. I also got him this strange thing from PetSmart that looks like a plastic donut with a hollow inside with a ball that is contained within. He swats that ball inside the plastic ring and it spins and spins. He likes it but he just lays on the floor smacking the ball every time it revolves next to him.

Thankfully the battle against obesity with cats is the same as human. Exercise and eating better. It is kinda weird how similar Salem's diet is to mine.

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