Weighing more than 18 kilos, this cat named Garfield might just be the fattest in the world. But while he may look cute and cuddly US pet experts say his size is cause for concern.
Garfield was dropped off at North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, New York by the neighbours of his elderly owner who passed away and staff couldn't believe his size.
"This is the fattest cat I have ever seen," North Shore veterinarian Gerard Leheney told the New York Post. "My first reaction was astonishment."
The shelter plans to locate the owner’s family before putting Garfield up for adoption, but first, he has been placed on a strict diet.
All dry food has been eliminated from Garfield's new low-calorie diet and vets at the centre hope he can lose around a kilo per month.
Vice president at North Shore Animal League America Mark Verdino said Garfield, like all obese pets, needs to lose weight to live a longer and healthier life.
"People often think that an obese animal is not in physical danger, but nothing could be further from the truth," he said.
"Just like with humans, too much weight can cause serious health problems. It leads to diabetes, heart disease, joint, bone and ligament damage, high blood pressure, intolerance to heat and more."
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