Cats Sacrifice Efficiency for Smooth Moves

What This Means for Your Cat
Your feline shares the same basic movements with wild cats, even though it may just stalk a toy mouse instead of big game. The stealthy, energy-inefficient way it moves when on the prowl causes it to expend many calories. That, in turn, means it needs to consume many calories.

The current obesity problem among domestic cats may, in part, result from the fact that such house kitties no longer inhabit the environment in which they evolved - an environment of daily, high-intensity workouts. A two-cat household - or one with enough cat trees and toys to keep your furry friend in motion for part of its day - can help keep your pet in fine shape.

Walk This Way
Because a cat's gait is theoretically important to its survival, an impaired gait is always a sign of a problem. If you notice Fluffy looking unsteady or walking without his usual fluidity, make an appointment with your veterinarian. All of these symptoms are typical signs of middle-ear disorders, like ear infections or punctured eardrums.

As for Rita, she seems to take her gracefulness for granted. "Sometimes when I'm watching her, I swear she looks at me like I'm crazy," Elson says. "I guess my walk isn't as fascinating to her - unless I'm moving toward her with treats!"