How was Poppy referred to the Weight Management Clinic?

When we went to get her annual booster, the vet mentioned the weight program to me, and said given Poppy’s age and size, she would recommend it.

How did you find the initial appointment?

I was quite anxious about Poppy having an anaesthetic, and I also felt a bit ashamed that we had had to go, as I wasn’t aware that she was overweight until it was pointed out to me by my local vet. The appointment went well though. Everyone was really friendly and everything was fully explained to me. I felt much better when I was told that even the vets had previously owned “larger cats”, who had benefitted from the plan. It was great to know that apart from her size, Poppy was in good health.

How did you cope with putting Poppy on to special diet food and weighing it?

At first it seemed a bit time consuming, but in reality, it takes seconds, and it is so important to weigh it carefully.

How did Poppy cope with the change?

She was very unhappy, and seemed to be hungry all the time. The contents of her bowl were gone almost immediately, then she would follow me round, or hang about by her food cupboard, or keep licking her empty bowl. I think I became much more conscious of this initially.

After a few weeks we both adjusted, and eventually Poppy became much more lively and playful. She doesn’t like cat toys, but I started leaving things out to tempt her to play, pen tops, scrunched up paper etc, then she started chasing them around. From Bagpuss to Ninja … Now, I have to make sure her collar and bell stays on, to give the birds and squirrels a head start.

Did you find the support you received useful?

Absolutely. I was able to chat to my vet at the local fortnightly weigh-ins, and also emailed Shelley with any concerns. It was good to receive the encouragement to keep it up, as it was often difficult and I did feel that Poppy was possibly not getting enough to eat. I never needed to phone with any queries although I knew I had this option as a backup.

How well is Poppy maintaining post weight loss?

We are doing really well, and have maintained target weight. Poppy actually looks younger and I’m sure she is happier. She is definitely healthier, so that hopefully means she will be around for much longer. Poppy will always be a bit of a chancer though, so I have to be careful not to leave anything out, even for a second. There is nothing she won’t try!

I would recommend any one who loves their cat to give it a go. It’s not always easy, but you won’t regret it. Poppy is just so lovely and funny and it’s the best thing we could have done.