how to help your obese pet

One out of every three pets is considered overweight or obese. Here are the most common reasons why your pet may be carrying too much weight.

Overfeeding

Pets love food, and owners love their pets. Treats and meals are an obvious way to give your pet what they enjoy. If you need help knowing exactly how much food your pet actually needs, your veterinary team is happy to help — and we include treats, we promise.

The wrong foods

People foods aren’t meant for pets. Table scraps are loaded with calories that can contribute to pet obesity. Just one bite can put off a pet’s calorie count for the entire day. It can be hard to ignore pleading eyes and ankle rubs, but it’s really better for your pet to resist.

Not enough exercise

Healthy cats and dogs need to move. It not only helps pets stay trim, but it’s a big part of health and happiness. If you’re not an exercise buff, don’t think you need to start running marathons with your pet. Creating a custom exercise routine for your cat or dog can be both easy and fun, even if they have health concerns. Just ask your vet what they recommend to get started.

It’s in their genes

Certain breeds simply gain weight unless they’re on a strict diet. It seems that they may have a mutation in the genes that control hunger and the feeling of fullness. So if your Labrador Retriever or Cocker Spaniel is always mooching for snacks, they may just be made that way. Ditto for cats like Maine Coons.

Health conditions

Certain health conditions, like arthritis or joint pain, may make your pet not feel like exercising. And other issues, like heart disease, may mean you need to take it easy. Ask your veterinary team about an exercise regimen designed for your unique pet. Ideally, it’s something that both of you will enjoy, like walks and swimming for dogs, or fun feathered toys.

Your veterinary team will happily work with you to make up a regime tailored to your unique pet’s age, needs, breed, and health issues.

To manage your pet’s weight, it helps to have recommendations about quality food, appropriate serving sizes, activity needs, and a healthy weight range for your BFF. Here are some tips to get started.

Count calories and stick to a feeding schedule

Talk to your vet about your pet’s daily calorie needs, and then be strict. If you’re splitting calories between a few meals a day, keep those regular times.

Keep track of treats

It’s so fun to give pets treats — and you don’t have to deny them. Just make sure those treats are part of their daily calorie count. Also, food isn’t the only way to show love. Petting, admiration, walks, and time with favorite toys are also deeply rewarding for your pet.

Make sure you know what they’re eating

Pets like dieting about as much as people do. Your pet may respond by begging, getting into the garbage, acting out, or stealing food from people or other pets. If it’s a concern, mention it to your veterinary team.

Exercise for the win

Ask your veterinary team about how to start an exercise routine for your BFF, especially if your pet has health issues like heart disease, arthritis, or joint injuries. Many dogs benefit from a nice stroll around the neighborhood, while even the most dignified cat may go nuts for a jingle ball, feather teaser, or laser pointer. Every little bit counts!

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