Obesity is an important issue for pet owners. Australian research estimates that 41% of dogs and 32% of cats are overweight. Just like us, an overweight pet often faces a range of health problems and it can have a significant impact of their quality of life.
The good news is that obesity is a common, preventable and treatable condition. There are a number of ways to control weight gain and help your pet lead a longer, healthier, happier life.
What causes pets to be overweight?
Weight gain in pets is normally the result of an increase in body fat. This is most commonly caused by a pet eating too much, especially when combined with a lack of exercise. If more energy is being gained from food that is being used, the surplus will be stored in the body as fat. Certain breeds are also more prone to putting on weight than others.
Whilst you may find your chubby pet adorable, the extra weight can put undue stress on bones and joints, shorten your pet’s life expectancy and increase your pet’s risk towards a number of health conditions. This can include arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, breathing difficulties, skin complaints and high blood pressure.
How to tell if your pet is overweight
So how can you tell if your pet is overweight? There are a few common signs to look out for in an overweight pet.
Unable to feel pets rib’s or spine with light pressure
No noticeable waist when viewed from above
Lack of interest in physical activity and reduced stamina
Pet is obsessed with food
You had to loosen your pets collar several times in the past year
Our vets can also check if your pet is overweight so if you have your concerns, you can also book your pet in for an appointment.
Tips for loosing weight
There are a number of ways to help your pet achieve a healthy weight. Its important to realise these are lifestyle changes, similar to those that you would embark on if you needed to reach a healthier weight yourself.
Speak to your local vet
If you think your pet is overweight, you should book in with your local vet to have them assessed.
Prior to any weight loss program, your vet will need to examine your pet to check their general health and rule out any underlying health issues that could be causing the weight gain.
Your vet can then give you an estimate of your pet’s ideal body weight and discuss a tailored weight loss program suited to their individual needs.
Complete and balanced diet
Your vet will be able to provide recommendations about the type of food and amount to give your pet each day to achieve a healthy weight.
Its better to provide your pet with portioned meals at specific times of the day, rather than letting them graze throughout the day. You can then take control of how much your pet eats.
Also selecting the treats that you offer and including them in the overall calorie intake for the day is important too.
Exercise
Overweight or not, all pets need exercise for both the physical and mental health.
Again, your vet can recommend the best exercise program based on your pets individual needs. For overweight dogs, this may include gentle walks or swimming. General playtime is also a great form of exercise for both dogs and cats.
Try to find something that your pet enjoys. This can encourage participation and success, but can also improve your pets overall happiness too.
Commitment
Achieving success in your pets weight requires a total commitment from both you and your family.
If you have an overweight pet and one family member feels guilty and is feeding your pet treats on the side or a bit extra at mealtime, then you aren’t going to notice much change.
So its important the whole household is on board with the weight loss plan to achieve success.
Keep track of progress
Its important to weigh your pet regularly and keep a record of their progress.
You can bring your pet into our vet clinic for a free weight check on our scales at any time during opening hours.
Another great idea is to take photos at the start of the journey and at each weigh in to keep a visual record. Celebrate and reward your pet’s progress with playtime and exercise, rather than food.
Stay positive
It can be challenging for some pet parents to embark on a weight loss program for their furry loved one.
We enjoy seeing our pets happy so it can be easier to give in when you see them begging for a treat.
Don’t feel guilty! Instead substitute the enjoyment you have sharing snacks with exercise and play time together. Also, think of the long-term health benefits you and your pet will enjoy when they achieve their weight loss goal.
If you are concerned about your pets weight or want to get started on a healthy weight loss program for your pet, call us to make an appointment on 03 8784 4444.