Got a fat cat? Let it try a hamster wheel!

IT is not only humans who are facing an obesity crisis – the nation’s moggies are, too. Overfeeding and lack of exercise mean 40 per cent are overweight.

Now owners are being urged to make sure their pets get a daily workout. It is particularly important for the one in ten of the UK’s 11million cats that spend their lives indoors, says vet Dr Carolina Vilches Romo.

She warns that many owners underestimate how much exercise their cats need. Dr Romo, an expert in feline medicine and surgery, suggests trying hunting games and even hamster-style wheels. ‘We’re not recommending that people start walking their cat on a lead like a dog, as this can cause distress to an animal that is fiercely independent and craves control,’ she said.

‘But house cat owners should be creating a daily exercise routine for their pet through active play and stimulation.’ Dr Romo, who is based at The Vet clinic in Waltham Forest, Essex, says cats that never go outside unsupervised should get at least 30 minutes’ exercise a day. ‘It’s in your cat’s DNA to want to use short bursts of energy to hunt, jump and play, so try to incorporate these into your exercise routine,’ she said. ‘You should be aiming for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day. Hunting-type games work well, where you encourage your cat to chase or stalk something. They also love to bat toys around and chase after them.

‘The key thing is finding what works for you and which your cat loves.’

Vets warn that obesity in cats is a major concern as it can increase their risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, asthma and arthritis.

The RSPCA says it easy to check if a cat is overweight. Owners should be able to see and feel their pet’s ribs, spine and hip bones, their waist should be clearly visible from above and their belly should not sag.