Just like their human owners, overweight cats can face some serious health issues. Test your insight with the quiz below.

1. According to veterinarians, what percentage of housecats is overweight?
a) 10
b) 25
c) 60
d) 80

2. What factors can contribute to a cat’s unhealthy weight gain?
a) Lack of exercise
b) Spaying/neutering
c) Overeating
d) All of the above

3. One pound of extra weight on a cat is roughly equal to how many on a person?
a) 3 to 5
b) 1 to 2
c) 5 to 10
d) 10 to 20

4. The first step to helping your cat lose weight is:
a) Pilates
b) Consulting your veterinarian
c) A crash diet
d) Purchasing low-calorie cat food

5. Aerobic exercise is essential to help your cat lose weight. Get your cat moving at least:
a) Three times a week
b) Once a week
c) Twice a day
d) None of the above

6. Aside from weight loss, exercise reaps other health benefits, such as:
a) Aiding in digestion and moving oxygen to body tissues
b) Improving flexibility and mental clarity
c) Both a and b
d) Neither a or b

7. Cat treats and table scraps only add extra calories to a cat’s diet. These foods should constitute no more than what percent of your cat’s daily diet?
a) 3 percent
b) 10 percent
c) 25 percent
d) 0.08 percent

8. The best way to ensure your cat receives adequate nutrition is to make sure the food dish is full at all times.
a) True
b) False

9. For multiple cats, you should:
a) Feed everyone the same amount all at once
b) Feed each cat a separate portion
c) Fill one big dish for everyone to share
d) None of the above

10. Measured, controlled food portions can play a key role in weight loss. These portions should be fed to your cat how many times throughout the day?
a) 3 to 4
b) 6 to 8
c) 1 to 2
d) 10 to 12

11. Obesity can prove fatal for a cat.
a) True
b) False

12. Obesity can lead to:
a) Arthritis
b) Hepatic lipidosis
c) Diabetes
d) All of the above

13. Hepatic lipidosis is:
a) Ingrown toenails
b) Bad breath
c) A urinary tract infection
d) A fat buildup in the liver

14. Fifty percent of hepatic lipidosis cases have no known cause. That’s why you must seek veterinary care immediately if your cat shows which symptoms?
a) Anorexia
b) Vomiting
c) Jaundice
d) Any of the above

15. As your cat gradually starts to lose weight, regular visits to the vet are needed for:
a) Dental cleanings
b) Progress checks
c) Blood pressure tests
d) Grooming

16. Many pet food companies manufacture specialty foods to help cats lose weight. They do this by:
a) Combining a short-term weight loss and long-term maintenance diet
b) Making the kibble smaller
c) Adding extra water to the food
d) Putting half as much food in the bag

17. Adult cats have the same caloric requirements even as they age.
a) True
b) False

18. A combination of low-calorie dry food and canned food can aid in weight loss because it:
a) Helps your cat feel fuller longer
b) Provides additional nutrients
c) Contains less fat
d) The two foods cancel each other out.

19. Especially during weight loss, it is important for cats to:
a) Drink plenty of clean, fresh water
b) Get extra sleep
c) Play more often
d) Eat more vitamin B12

20. Different breeds of cats can be more susceptible to unhealthy weight gain.
a) True
b) False

21. Concerns about your cat’s weight should always be taken up with a veterinarian, as there could be more serious health problems involved.
a) True
b) False

SCORING

Score one point for every correct answer:

8 - 14 points: Good going. If you’re looking to help your cat lose weight, you’re off to a good start. If your cat is already at an ideal weight, you have the basics to help him or her maintain a healthy physique.

15 - 21 points: Congratulations! You understand that your cat’s weight is your responsibility, and you appreciate the impact that it has on your cat’s overall health and quality of life.

Shannon Burrows has worked as a reporter and photographer for several newspapers. Currently, she is a regional copy editor for “The Observer,” a daily newspaper in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. She lives in Sarnia with her cat, Diva.