Just like people dogs and cats have an ideal weight. Achieving and maintaining pets' ideal weight reduces the risk of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, skin complaints, breathing difficulties and arthritis. Current studies suggest that half of all pets are considered overweight to obese.
This information is provided by your veterinarian to help you care for your overweight or obese pet, with tips on helping your pet lose weight for a lifetime of good health.
Causes of Weight Gain
- Overeating - Pets who are fed too much food or high-calorie treats tend to gain weight.
- Disease - Weigh gain can be the result of a medical disorder.
- Neutering/Spaying - Pets that have been neutered or spayed have a higher risk of weight gain.
- Decreased Activity - Pets that don't get enough exercise may need fewer calories.
- Age - Older pets are often less active, requiring fewer calories.
- Breed - Some breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Cairn Terriers, Cocker and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to weight gain.
Signs of a Weight Problem
You may have noticed the following signs of excess weight in your own pet
:
- Ribs can't easily be felt
- Loss of an obvious waist
- Difficulty walking
- Shortness of breath
- Excessive sleeping
- Slow to move
- Bad temper
Home Care
- Make a total commitment to help your pet lose weight.
- Follow your veterinarian's feeding recommendations.
- Feed a low-calorie, high-fiber food specifically formulated for weight management.
- Avoid feeding your pet table scraps.
- Divide the total amount to be fed each day into 3 or 4 smaller meals.
- Use a measuring cup to make sure you are feeding the proper amount of food.
- Exercise your pet regularly if recommended by your veterinarian.
- Monitor your pet's weight regularly.
Feeding Recommendations
Proper nutrition will help your pet achieve a healthy weight. Your veterinarian will recommend a well-balanced food with lower fat levels, reduced calories and increased fiber to help your pet feel full. A food with high levels of L-Carnitine helps pets lose fat while maintaining lean muscle mass.
© Copyright 2004 Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital
HOME