Is your cat, dog, hamster or pet rat looking rather chubby? Perhaps, like you, it’s not getting enough exercise and eating too much? Maybe it’s time to put you both on a diet and exercise program?
One in Three Dogs May Be Obese
A recent study showed that as many as one in every three dogs may be obese. The figure for cats is much the same.
The study looked at 19 obese dogs and followed them through a rigorous diet that cut their energy intake by almost half. All the dogs lost weight, some of them by as much as a third.
Commenting on the paper, which was published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Veterinary nutritionist, Professor Craig Thatcher of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences in the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, said the reasons for this upsurge in animal obesity include decreased physical activity, age, and an increased caloric intake.
Some breeds of dogs are genetically predisposed to obesity, Dr Thatcher said.
Labradors, retrievers, beagles, and cocker spaniels are all breeds that are more likely to put on extra pounds.
However, he pointed out that endocrine problems can also cause weight gain, and these must be ruled out before putting your pet on a diet.
Health Problems with Obesity
As for humans, there are many health problems for your pet associated with being obese.
Dogs and cats that are overweight may be predisposed to develop diabetes mellitus.
They may also suffer from decreased heat tolerance and stamina, increased dermatological conditions, decreased immune function, and multiple musculoskeletal and orthopedic problems.
Take Veterinary Advice Before Dieting
You can’t just put your cat or dog on the equivalent of the Atkins’ or the South Beach diet. However much you love them, they are not humans, and have different dietary needs from us.
The first step is to take your pudgy pet to a veterinarian.
“Veterinarians are the best resource to assist clients in designing a safe and effective weight reduction program for their pet,” said Dr Thatcher.
The veterinarian will work with you to design a weight reduction program that is specific to your individual pet’s needs.
A balanced, restricted-calorie diet should be implemented with you, the owner, taking responsibility for carefully monitoring food consumption and not allowing your pet to eat as much or as often as they’d like.
If Your Dog’s Fat, You’re Not Exercising Enough
Dr Thatcher also advises starting an exercise program. This should be a plan that you are willing to comply with and that your pet can comfortably perform.
Remember, if your dog’s fat, you’re not getting enough exercise!
This is definitely easier for dog owners to implement than for those with tubby cats, so discuss ways of getting exercise into your cat’s life, such as toys for her to chase or games you can play together.
A Healthier Lifestyle For You and Your Pet
As your pet progresses through a weight loss program, you must monitor their progress by weighing them and by assessing body condition – fat changing to lean muscle, a glossier coat, less irritable skin.
Start by monitoring them every two weeks to ensure your animal is successfully losing weight. If there are problems, see the veterinarian again.
“Avoiding obesity is an important part of the overall wellness of an animal,” said Dr Thatcher.
“Pets and their owners alike will enjoy a much higher quality of life when the pet maintains a healthy weight.”
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