Obesity is not just a problem among humans, but it has now become a major health issue for dogs and cats. Did you know that over 50% of the pet population in the U.S. is overweight?
Over the past few years, many vets have seen an increase in weight-related pet diseases. Some of the reasons for dogs and cats being overweight is feeding them too many treats and not getting enough exercise. This can end up in permanent damage to the pet’s health.
Apart from it being expensive to treat conditions like diabetes, liver disease, heart disease and inflammation in joints, obesity severely impacts on the life quality of your pet.
If have noticed that your pet is starting to put on extra weight, now is the time to take actions. The quicker you can help your dog or cat to lose weight, the more chance you have of preventing the harmful effects of obesity.
So, if you are concerned about weight problems with your pet, here are some helpful tips to help your cat or dog shed some weight and prevent health problems.
Talk to Your Vet
To make sure that your pet receives the best help and assistance to lose weight, you should talk to your local vet. Your vet can perform a full physical checkup on your pet to look for early signs of weight-related illnesses like diabetes.
Your vet will also check for signs of dog or cat obesity. For example, he or she will feel around the midsection. There shouldn’t be much fat around the ribs and spine. A cat or dog should have an hourglass shape as opposed to a tube shape.
Pet Diet
You vet will probably recommend a special diet to reduce calorie intake and suggest more exercise to help your pet lose the pounds. Just like there are special dietary foods for humans to lose weight, so your vet can recommend weight reduction foods for your cat or dog.
For example, a brand that has been very effective in helping dogs and cats reduce weight is Science Direct’s r/d Weight Reduction range and Science Direct Metabolic formula. These dietary foods are better for your pet than just reducing your their portion size (which of course is important). These weight reduction foods contain all the necessary nutrients and minerals required by a pet of any age, but with fewer calories.
So, make sure and don’t “kill with kindness.” Care for your pet’s health by watching their calorie intake and making sure they get enough exercise. This may also improve your health and strengthen the bond between you and your loved pet.