Meet Fat Fred — a delightfully round cat who’s turned lounging into an art form at Furry Friends Animal Hospital in Louisiana.
Fred was adopted by veterinarian Dr. Marcia Riedel from a local shelter, weighing a staggering 29 pounds. But as Riedel quickly discovered, Fred’s personality is even larger than his body.
“He prefers to roam the clinic and act as our official greeter rather than stay at my house, which doesn’t have a steady flow of admirers,” Riedel told The Dodo. “He’s fully convinced humans exist to serve him snacks 24/7.”
Fred’s favorite hangout is the front window, where he sprawls out for all to see — and that’s where things get interesting.
Thanks to his prominent belly, most passersby draw the same conclusion: they think he’s pregnant.
“Ninety percent of the people who spot him assume he’s expecting,” Riedel said with a laugh.
The truth? Nope. Just fluff — and fat.
To settle the misunderstanding once and for all, Riedel posted a sign in the window next to Fred’s favorite spot, clarifying that he's not pregnant — just very well-fed.
If Fred could read, Riedel suspects he’d have a few edits.
“He’d probably change the sign to say he’s not on a diet,” she joked.
Still, Fred’s been making progress. With Riedel’s help, he’s slimmed down to 25 pounds — a small but healthy step in the right direction. Despite his size, Fred’s surprisingly agile, especially when food’s involved.
“He can hear a single kibble hit the floor from across the clinic and get there in seconds,” Riedel said.
While Fred might never give up his throne in the front window, one thing’s clear — he’s not expecting kittens anytime soon. Just more treats.
