Does Your Pet Need to Lose Weight?

Did you know that obesity is one of the biggest medical issues our furry patients face? We understand that many pet owners like pampering their furry pals with snacks. There’s nothing wrong with giving your pet treats, as long as you don’t go too far overboard. We know, Fluffy and Fido will still look cute even if they are little overweight. Unfortunately, that extra weight can have a negative impact on your pet’s health. Continue reading to learn more about pet obesity from your Exeter, CA veterinarian.

How Do I Determine If My Pet Is Obese?

In some cases, it’s obvious whether a pet is overweight. If your four-legged pal resembles a potato with ears, legs, and a tail, you may have a porker on your hands (or on your lap). Obesity in fluffy or large-framed dogs and cats is more difficult to detect, however.

As a general guideline, an animal is considered overweight if they weigh more than 10% of its optimal body weight and obese if they are more than 20% over.

For Fido, the appropriate body weight will be determined in large part by his breed. There is a pretty wide range here, though. A strong male Newfoundland can weigh more than 80 kilograms, but a Chihuahua weighs less than three. If your dog is purebred, you can find out more about his appropriate weight by reviewing the breed criteria.

Obviously, many dogs are mutts. What then?

That gets us to the body weight score charts. You may locate them online or take a quick exam.

Another method is to feel your pet’s ribcage. If you can feel their ribs beneath a thin layer of muscle and fat, that is a really good indicator. If you can’t feel them at all, your pet is probably overweight.

Your veterinarian will be the ultimate judge in this case. This is definitely something to talk about during your appointments at our Exeter, CA pet hospital.

Which Dogs Are Prone To Obesity?

At the end of the day, your pet’s weight is determined by his calorie intake and if he expends more than he consumes. This, of course, is where Man’s Best Friend’s love of munchies comes into play. Fido will not turn up his nose at a slice of bacon, and if you drop a hot dog on the floor, he will immediately rush into action to help clean it up. That said, certain breeds are more likely to gain weight than others. The Pug, Beagle, Golden Retriever, Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, German Shepherd, Scottish Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Newfoundland, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund, Labrador Retriever, Basset Hound, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frisé, Border Collie, Saint Bernard, and West Highland White Terrier are among the pups that tend to pack on pounds.

What Cat Breeds Are Most Prone to Obesity?

Breed is less important for cats than for dogs. Cat breeds vary in size less than dog breeds. However, there are some kitties that tend to pack on pounds.

The Maine Coon and its cousin, the Norwegian Forest Cat, are purring smugly atop the list of chubby kitties. Other furballs that are prone to becoming butterballs are the British Shorthair, American Shorthair, Exotic Short Hair, Ragdoll, Birman, and Sphynx.

How Can I Help My Pet Slim Down?

There’s both good and terrible news here. The good news is that you ultimately determine what your pet eats. While you can’t order Fido or Fluffy to run laps around the kitchen, you can have a significant impact on their activity regimen. Ask your veterinarian for detailed advice on your pet’s diet and exercise needs.

That said, here are a few tips.

• Pay attention to portion control. Even feeding your pet a few extra calories each day can cause weight gain!
• Serve healthy age-appropriate foods.
• Make adjustments gradually, over the course of several days.
• Never try to put your pet on a crash diet. This can cause havoc with their metabolism, and could make your pet very sick!
• Limit treats. It’s fine to feed Fluffy and Fido snacks, but keep them to around 5% of your pet’s daily caloric intake. Steel yourself! If you can’t resist, provide something nutritious.
• Track your pet’s weight. One simple method is to weigh yourself first, then pick up your pet and reweigh yourself. The difference between those two numbers is in your pet’s weight.

Visit your pet clinic regularly. Do not be afraid to seek advice about your pet’s health and care. That is why we are here!

Schedule an Appointment at Our Exeter, CA Animal Clinic

Have you got any questions about your pet’s feeding or care? Call us, your Exeter, CA veterinarians, at any time. We are here to help!