I'm often asked what disease I see most often in dogs and cats. I'd guess that more than half of the pets I see on a daily basis are overweight or obese - we love our animals too much! Unfortunately, these excess pounds can lead to some serious problems. One study showed that about 2/3 of people with an overweight/obese pet did not realize their pet had a weight issue! A good rule of thumb is that if you cannot easily feel your pet's ribs, they are overweight. Make sure you talk with your veterinarian about your pet's weight - and how to change it safely (if needed).
1) The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has statistics showing that more than 1 in 4 American adults are considered obese. Now, it seems our pets are joining us in this un-healthy lifestyle!
2) According the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 42% of dogs and 53% of cats are overweight in North America.
3) What's worse is that an additional 10% of dogs and 19% of cats are considered obese. That's more than half of our dogs and almost 75% of our cats living with excess pounds!
4) Veterinarians and pet owners are concerned about this expanding epidemic. Overweight pets are prone to health problems such as diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease.
5) Additionally, pudgy pets are at a high risk for anesthesia if surgery is ever needed.
6) Although genetics and breed type can predispose a pet to weight gain, most often pets are heavy due to excessive treats and delicious "people food" shared by their owners.
7) A revolutionary study showed that dogs fed a limited amount of calories daily live an average of two years longer than dogs who are allowed free access to food.
8) To help your pet lose those excess pounds, start with a visit to your veterinarian. A good physical exam and a complete blood work-up will help to rule out any disease that could cause weight gain.
9) Next, working with your veterinarian, devise a feeding plan that safely reduces the number of calories being fed while increasing calories being burned from activity. Sometimes (especially in cats) a feeding plan much different from what you are currently doing may be recommended.
10) Avoid using self-feeders and designate one person in the household to feed the pet. Multiple small meals daily are better than one large meal.
11) Make exercise a priority! Two half-hour long brisk walks with your chubby canine or a half-hour of romping with your fat cat can help them shed the excess weight.
12) Be sure to follow up with your veterinarian. Your pet's diet plan may need adjusting and frequent rechecks will help you feel good about your pet's progress.
13) Sometimes medical intervention is needed, especially in older overweight dogs that have developed arthritis. Talk with your veterinarian about medications that can aid in weight loss FAST.
-Dr. Waterhouse
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