Factors associated with overweight cats successfully completing a diet-based weight loss programme: an observational...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Nutrition
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Dietary caloric restriction with specialized diets is the primary method for controlled feline weight loss.
• Previous research has primarily focused on short-term outcomes, lacking data on overall program completion rates.
• This study aimed to identify factors influencing the successful completion of diet-based weight loss programs in overweight cats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the factors associated with successful completion of a diet-based weight loss program in overweight cats.
• To investigate the odds of cats reaching their target weight through a structured weight management program.
• To identify predictors of success or failure in feline weight loss interventions.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 62 overweight cats was enrolled in a diet-based weight loss program.
• Data on weight loss rate, total weight loss required, and reasons for program withdrawal were collected.
• Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with program completion.

Main Results:

• Only 45% (28 out of 62) of cats successfully completed their weight loss program.
• Key factors influencing completion included a higher rate of weight loss (odds ratio [OR] 157.81) and a lower amount of weight loss required (OR 0.89).
• Common reasons for premature program termination included owner-related issues (difficulty contacting, owner request, illness, personal issues) and cat non-compliance or illness.

Conclusions:

• The rate of weight loss and the total weight loss needed are significant predictors of successful program completion in cats.
• Owner support is crucial, particularly for cats requiring substantial weight loss, as they are less likely to complete the program.
• Future research should focus on developing enhanced owner support strategies for managing obesity in cats, especially for the most severely affected individuals.