Cat insurance could potentially help felines maintain a healthy weight, if one report is anything to go by.Weight changes in the animals may be cause for concern and could require a trip to the vet, according to Joseph Wakshlag, assistant professor of clinical nutrition at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, US.

Speaking to the New York Times, the professor pointed out that there are no calorie counts on pet foods due to insufficient testing.

This could mean pet owners should be extra vigilant when it comes to their feline friends’ physical condition, something that could be enhanced with cat insurance.

Depending on the level of the cat metabolism and general rate of activity, the average cat requires between 200 and 400 calories every day.

However, if owners can feel their cat ribs with no fat covering, or if they are too fat with a rounded abdomen and no visible waistline, the amount of food given can be adjusted accordingly, the expert added.

Tips have also been offered to keep down cats’ weight by Purina. It says cutting out treats and snacks, reducing food intake and increasing activity levels could help, but advises against crash dieting.