35-pound ‘fat cat’ needs new family for adoption

Are you a big cat lover? No, I mean a really, really BIG cat lover. If so, here’s something that may interest you. A 35-pound cat named Symba is currently up for adoption. Now that’s a true “fat cat!”

Yep. 35 pounds. That’s bigger than a lion cub. He’s bigger than most toddlers. But hey, you know what they say: that just means that there is more of him to love!

Cat Rejected From Nursing Home

This orange kitty is up for adoption at the the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C. Sadly, he ended up there after his previous owner had to move into a nursing facility that did not accept pets.

Yes, pets can pose some issues including allergies. But research shows that companion animals can help to reduce mortality rates and improved elderly patients’ physical and emotional health.

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Still, not every nursing facility is equipped to handle pets, and when that is the case, sweet animals like Symba often end up in the shelter system.

And, while Symba is looking for a loving home, he also needs a family who can help whip him into beach-body shape. Well, he doesn’t need to rock a bikini with Kim Kardashian curves. But he does need to drop at least 15 pounds, according to the shelter officials.

To that end, he needs a family who will make sure he gets lots of exercise (laser pointer, anyone?) and that he eats a very healthy and calorie-controlled diet.

Healthy Weight Equals Happy Cat

While it might sound a bit strict, it’s actually for his own good. An estimated 59 percent of cats in the United States are overweight or obese. This extra poundage comes with serious health risks.

A fat cat has a reduced life expectancy, and has a greater risk of issues like urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, and breathing problems. Overweight cats also experience pain, as the excess weight strains their small joints.

Aww. No wonder the vet says that Symba needs to slim down in order to lead a full, fun life.

Here is some good news. A recent study published in The Journal of Veterinary Behavior found overweight cats don’t ‘hold a grudge’ when they are put on a diet. In fact, these cats showed more affection to their owners after being put on a restricted diet, presumably because they felt better and had more energy.

So don’t feel guilty about putting your pet on a diet. Your cat will thank you in the end!

h/t: TODAY