Q: I adopted a kitten whose front leg had to be amputated after she was hit by a car and left for dead. She is a little off because she is missing her front leg. How do I keep her weight down since indoor cats tend to be more robust than outdoor cats? I don't want to put undue stress on the other leg.
A: I think it is great that you have taken the time to bring this special needs animal into your life and give her the home that she deserves. Three-legged kittens whose scientific name should be Felinus tripodus psychomaniacus really don't lose a step as far as activity level and their ability to get around. They run, jump, launch and scat anywhere they please with little hesitation and regard for their fellow humans. So I think her activity level will be adequate and normal for a kitten her age. That in and of itself will help to keep her weight at or near the normal level during the kitten period.
After you get her spayed is when I would start to be concerned about putting on a few pounds or as I see it "packing on the pudge for the puddy". There are some steps to take with her and pretty much all cats that may have a tendency to gain weight as they age.
1. Food. Buy an adult blend cat food for all cats over 1 year and stop the high calorie kitten blends. If a simple diet change isn't enough to stop weight gain then change again to a low-calorie/low-fat blend. All these foods are available at grocery stores and pet stores. Your veterinarian should carry more reduced calorie prescription diets if you need them as a last resort.
2. Treats. Try to keep these at a minimum. Cats, dogs, husbands and children all love treats as often as they can get their little paws on them. That is fine. Look for ones that have the least amount of calories and give 1 daily for humans as well as animals.
3. Feeding amounts. Most cats will do well with "free feeding." This means putting out a bowl of dry food and allowing them to crunch all day to fill themselves up. Cats, being a highly civilized species, generally will eat only until they are satisfied then stop. There are cats that seem to be watching the dog too closely and continue to eat until they throw up from gluttony. These cats need to be fed on the "meal plan." Twice daily feeding of 1/2 to 2/3 of a cup of dry food should satisfy you typical 10-pound cat.
4. Canned food. It is best to feed only dry food to young healthy cats. They eat slower and it helps their teeth to stay cleaner. If you are a softy like me and you want to give canned food, too, remember this one rule - portion control. Feed only 1 tablespoon daily, again of a low-calorie/low-fat blend. After all, cats are true carnivores and do enjoy their meat. It is ok to feed older cats (over 8) canned food. Feed only 1/2 of a small can once daily and limit the amount of dry food available to make up for the difference.
5. Exercise. Tripods can still exercise with the best of them. She needs to keep her muscles strong and her heart healthy. Laser lights are great for her to chase while you recline in a comfortable chair. Play fishing poles with a toy attached are fun too. If you can trim her nails I would probably recommend not declawing if you can help it. I would think she would need those claws to help her grab things and play since she can't pick objects up like normal cats using two paws.
I hope these ideas help you to keep your kitten healthy and around for a long time. Check with your regular veterinarian for other ideas and make adjustments as needed.
Send questions for Dr. Allison Dascoli to "Ask the Vet," Charleston Daily Mail, 1001 Virginia St. E., Charleston WV 25301 or e-mail them to http://dailymail.com/Life/AsktheVet/contact/nfxgurirg+qnvylznvy+pbz+return=/Life/AsktheVet/200805270201. Comments or suggestions can be submitted the same way.