It’s important for your cat to be at a healthy weight because it can help them feel their best, get around easier, and potentially live longer. In fact, the mortality rate in obese cats is almost three times higher than it is for lean cats. And since 50% of cats in America ages 5 – 11 are considered overweight, it’s easy to see why preventing obesity may be in the forefront of pet parents’ minds. In terms of obesity, a healthy cat weight helps decrease their risk of developing diseases or making symptoms of certain diseases worse. This can include: Arthritis and other joint problems High blood pressure Cancer Urinary bladder stones Type 2 diabetes Cardiovascular disease While not as common as being overweight, cats that are underweight aren’t exempt from problems either. They may have underlying health conditions — like liver failure, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, or kidney disease — contributing to their weight issues. No matter what side of the weight spectrum your cat is on, making sure they’re at an ideal weight can help keep them healthier into their golden years.