In cats, rapid weight loss can increase their risk to suffering fatty liver disease. The high fat percentage in the body of obese cats can increase their risk for liver disease, a life-threatening problem. If your pet is carrying excess pounds, you should take steps to help him get back to a healthy weight. But make sure that the weight loss is gradual, which, ideally, should not be more than 0.5 pound a month. For cats that are mildly overweight, losing a pound a month is still within safe limits.

When an obese cat loses weight in a rapid manner, hepatic lipidosis or fatty liver syndrome can develop. It is actually a defense mechanism of the body, an act of self-preservation. When stored body fat is mobilized, it can overwork and overwhelm the liver, eventually causing this important organ to shut down.

It is best to work with your Westminster, MD veterinarian in working out a safe and healthy weight loss regimen for your pet cat or dog.