Excessive weight gain may lead to a risk in certain medical conditions. As a pet owner, the health of your pet is always top of mind. Likewise, proper nutrition and exercise are a factor in keeping your pet in top shape. Because of that, we’re hoping this guide on pet obesity prevention can be beneficial for all pet owners.
How do dogs and cats become obese?
A pet’s weight can vary depending on their age and breed. “Dogs and cats become obese the same way humans do when calorie intake exceeds energy needs. With pets, that can be due to overfeeding with too much food at each meal or too many treats, as well as sedentary lifestyles. There are certain medical conditions that can cause weight gain, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease, so if weight gain is a concern, the pet should definitely be evaluated by a veterinarian.”
Tips to keep your dog or cat in shape
Whether you have a new puppy or kitten, proper weight maintenance is important for the growth and development of your new furry friend. Consider the following pet obesity prevention tips to keep your pets in their best health.
- Have your pet being assessed by a veterinarian to determine what their ideal weight should be and have them make diet recommendations. There are prescription diets for dogs and cats that can be very beneficial in achieving weight goals.
- Be mindful of the number of treats a pet receives throughout the day. They can easily add up and lead to excessive calorie intake.
- Make sure your pets get regular exercise and playtime.
- Designate one person in the house to be in charge of feeding to make sure that the pets are fed in same amount consistently, and that they aren’t accidentally getting extra meals.
- Use a measuring cup for feeding to ensure consistency and reduce the risk of overfeeding.
- Don’t give in when they look at you with sad eyes or when they beg.
- Foods that are labeled as “light” or “reduced calorie” may even have higher calories than normal foods-examine the label to make sure that the food being fed is truly a reduction in calories.
- Feeding directions on the bag may lead to overfeeding. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate number of cups to be fed daily.
