Obesity is one of the most common health issues affecting cats today. Over 50% of cats in the United States are considered overweight or obese. Carrying excess weight puts cats at risk for serious diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. The key to helping an overweight cat slim down is feeding them a healthy diet focused on high-protein, low-calorie foods. Snacks can be part of a weight loss program, as long as you choose options that fit into your cat’s new nutrition plan.
How can snacks help cats lose weight?
Snacks given in between meals can provide extra nutrients and fuel for an active, healthy cat. But for overweight and obese cats trying to slim down, snacks need to be very low in fat and calories. Healthy, low-calorie snacks can help in several ways:
- Prevent begging and stealing food: Providing approved snacks prevents cats from begging and stealing high-calorie foods.
- Curb hunger between meals: Snacks help cats feel satisfied until the next meal.
- Promote weight loss when substituted for high-calorie foods: Choosing snacks under 10 calories supports weight loss goals.
- Add fiber: High-fiber snacks may aid weight loss and digestive health.
- Preserve muscle mass: Protein-rich snacks help maintain muscle while losing fat.
What should you look for in a healthy feline snack?
The best snacks for overweight cats contain high amounts of protein and fiber, with little to no carbs or fat. Here are some healthy snack guidelines:
- Low calorie: Less than 10 calories per snack
- High in protein: At least 5g to 7g protein per serving
- High in fiber: 5g fiber or more per serving
- Low carb: Under 2g net carbs per serving
- Low fat: Less than 3g fat per serving
- No additives or artificial flavors
- Moist texture: Hydrates cats between meals
25 Best Healthy Snacks for Overweight Cats
When selecting snacks for a cat trying to lose weight, protein-rich options are your best bet. Meat, poultry, fish and eggs provide protein with minimal carbs and fat. Here are 25 smart snacking options:
1. Cooked Shrimp
- High in protein
- Low in calories and fat
- Moist, chewy texture
2. Chicken Breast
- Lean protein source
- Remove skin to reduce fat
- Chop or shred into bites
3. Egg Whites
- Pure protein without fat of yolks
- Scramble or make into omelets
- Add veggies for extra nutrition
4. Plain Greek Yogurt
- High in protein, low in carbs
- Provides probiotics
- Low-fat options reduce calories
5. Canned Tuna
- Choose tuna packed in water
- Flake with a fork to break up
- Rinse to reduce sodium content
6. Salmon
- Omega-3s support skin/coat health
- Grill, bake or poach; no added oils
- Check for bones before serving
7. Frozen Green Beans
- Low calorie vegetable option
- Chop into bite-size pieces
- Can be lightly steamed or thawed
8. Lean Deli Meat
- Turkey, chicken, or roast beef
- Avoid fatty, high-sodium options
- Cut into small pieces
9. Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
- Provide protein and calcium
- 1-2 tablespoons for small snack
- Drain liquid to reduce calories
10. Hard Boiled Eggs
- Boil eggs and keep shelled in fridge
- Mash yolk and white together
- Avoid adding oils, salt or other flavor
11. Cucumber Slices
- Low calorie vegetable option
- Crunchy texture; cut into wheels
- Refreshing snack on warm days
12. Lettuce Leaves
- Romaine, green leaf, red leaf
- Tear into smaller pieces
- Add lean protein or plain yogurt
13. Green Beans
- Fiber and vitamins
- Steam lightly and cut up
- Avoid adding butter or oils
14. Cantaloupe
- Refreshing melon for hydration
- Slice into small wedges
- Remove rind and seeds
15. Apple Slices
- Core apple and cut into thin slices
- Leave skin on for fiber and nutrients
- Prevent browning by dipping in lemon juice
16. Carrots
- Low calorie vegetable
- Shred or cut into coins
- Avoid cooking with oil or butter
17. Blueberries
- Provide antioxidants
- Select larger ones to avoid choking
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
18. Pumpkin Purée
- Fiber aids digestion
- Only use plain, no sugar added
- Freeze into cubes as tasty snack
19. Beef Jerky
- Seeks animal protein source
- Choose low-sodium, natural brands
- Tear into small, cat-sized pieces
20. Oatmeal
- Cook plain oats with no sugar
- Let cool before serving tiny portions
- Fiber helps keep cats full
21. Melon Chunks
- Watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe
- Remove rinds/seeds
- Refreshing hydration source
22. Peas
- Frozen or fresh steamed peas
- Mash before serving
- Avoid adding butter during cooking
23. Sweet Potato
- Bake as healthy french fries
- Mash like potatoes without milk/butter
- Low calorie compared to white potato
24. White Fish
- Tilapia, cod, halibut, flounder
- Bake, grill or steam
- Flake into bite sized pieces
25. Brown Rice
- High fiber whole grain option
- Rinse before cooking
- Add lean protein to make complete meal
Tips for Healthy Feline Snacking
Follow these tips to incorporate healthy snacking into your cat’s weight loss plan:
- Ask your vet for diet and calorie recommendations.
- Select snacks under 10 calories to promote weight loss.
- Portion snacks into bite-sized pieces.
- Refrigerate perishable snacks for freshness.
- Offer snacks at scheduled times, not free feeding.
- Substitute snacks for high-calorie treats or table scraps.
- Limit snacks if your cat is diabetic or has other conditions.
- Increase playtime and exercise to help burn more calories.
- Weigh your cat weekly to monitor weight loss progress.
- Provide snacks along with their regular low-calorie diet.
Conclusion
Snacks can be a healthy part of a cat’s weight loss plan, as long as you choose low calorie, high protein options. Meat, fish, eggs, yogurt and low carb veggies make excellent snacks under 10 calories. Offer snacks on a schedule between meals, not free feeding throughout the day. Check with your vet to develop a customized weight loss plan. With the right diet and increased exercise, snacks can support safe weight loss success.