A ten-year-old cat named CC, who arrived at The Big House Sanctuary and Rehab weighing 23 pounds, is making significant progress in her weight loss journey thanks to a surprising motivator: a catnip banana.
CC was transferred to the Ontario-based sanctuary from another shelter, where staff were struggling to address both her obesity and a neurological condition causing mobility issues. Kristine Seguin of The Big House Sanctuary and Rehab described CC as “the most loving, sweetest cat, who was very likely just misunderstood,” noting her initial expectation of a withdrawn animal was quickly overturned.
The Big House specializes in the care of overweight felines, and veterinarians cleared CC to begin a weight loss plan. Initial attempts to encourage activity through traditional toys proved unsuccessful. However, the introduction of a catnip banana dramatically changed CC’s engagement, prompting her to move and play more frequently.
According to Seguin, the increased activity has been instrumental in CC’s progress. “Every step made her stronger,” she said. “Every step made her weight loss journey easier. You could notice that she was a lot more open to trying even more things.”
The sanctuary has also incorporated IAMS™ Proactive Health Healthy Weight Adult Dry Cat Food into CC’s diet to support her weight management. As of March 21, 2026, CC has lost approximately six pounds and is displaying increased confidence and a more adventurous spirit, according to sanctuary staff.
The Big House Sanctuary & Rehab currently also cares for other overweight cats, including Zorro, a 12-year-old weighing 22.5 pounds with mobility issues and dental disease, and Maple, estimated to be 15 years old and currently weighing 18.4 pounds after losing weight from an initial 22.2 pounds. Diego, an 8-year-old cat, is also undergoing a weight loss journey, currently weighing close to 30 pounds and receiving treatment for a skin infection.
The sanctuary relies on donations to provide care and medical support for its feline residents.
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