RSPCA finds cat so fat he cannot groom himself

Lucky was taken in by the RSPCA after an officer was called by neighbours who were concerned due to his weight and a large lump they’d spotted on his back.

RSPCA inspector Kate Levesley went to the address in Brownhills, Walsall, on June 25.

She said: “Neighbours were concerned about Lucky after popping in to take care of him while his owner was away from home and unable to care for him. It seems as though he was being fed but not getting enough exercise and unfortunately has become very overweight.

“Lucky had a massive mat on his back probably because he couldn’t groom properly and was unable to wash due to his weight.”

Kate took Lucky to Hillfield Animal Home, run by RSPCA Burton upon Trent & District Branch, to be taken care of.

Staff shaved the matted fur off of Lucky’s back and made him more comfortable. He weighed in at 7kg which is around 3kg heavier than a healthy adult male cat should.

He’s now been put onto a special diet to help him shed some weight before being rehomed at a later date.

Cyan Hulland, from the animal home, said: “He is very shy and doesn't move around a lot but he is a very sweet boy. Hopefully, when he trusts us better and loses a bit of that weight, he will be more active and show his personality.”

Figures have suggested that almost half of all cats and dogs are overweight.

RSPCA pet welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “Pet obesity is a serious welfare issue affecting a large proportion of our pets today. Recent studies have suggested that around half of all pet dogs are overweight and this can cause serious health and welfare issues for them such as heart disease and diabetes.

“Obesity can affect all types of pets and the main cause is from eating too much or not exercising enough. As a rough guide for dogs and cats - you should be able to see and feel the outline of their ribs without excess fat covering them.

"Other tips are that you should be able to see and feel their waist and it should be clearly visible when viewed from above. Anyone who is concerned about their pet’s weight should speak to their vet for advice.”