In conjunction with reports that people are getting fatter, veterinarians are seeing fatter pets wallow into their practices. In most cases, the reasons are the same for pets as they are for people: too much food and not enough exercise.
Obesity in pets causes many of the same problems it does in people: diabetes, joint/ligament/tendon difficulties, breathing and heart maladies. Overweight cats can even develop skin problems from an inability to properly groom themselves. The overall impact on daily comfort and life-span can be dire indeed.
Some good news to consider is that pets can’t open the refrigerator like we can, nor are they licensed to drive to the local fast-food drive-thru window. What our pets eat is totally dependent on, well…us. Pets are usually up for a walk, a game of fetch, or play with a toy on a string even if we are not. Even if it’s not our favorite thing to do, why not give our pets the chance to play and shed those unhealthy extra pounds? After all, they love to move, especially if we are moving along with them.
Dogs and cats have some padding on their trunk normally…but not too much. You should be able to feel their ribs immediately under their skin. If there is a “fatty-pad” between the skin and ribs, your pet is probably overweight. The more “fatty-pad” present, the more overweight he or she likely is.
Remember though, crash diets are not good for pets. Fat cats especially can develop a potentially life-threatening fatty liver problem. It takes time for pets to get fat, and as such, they should be given time to change metabolism rates, eating habits, and exercise regimens to achieve a healthy loss of weight.
Where do you start? If your pet is truly overweight, the best place to start is at your veterinarian’s office. He or she can examine your pet and likely recommend tests that will make sure your pet doesn’t have any medical problems that might make lifestyle changes difficult or dangerous. Your pet’s doctor can also make diet recommendations that should help.
A few hints: Carve out some time to walk your dog or play with your cat at least three times a week. Anything that gets them running is usually best. Whatever food regimen you and your veterinarian come up with, STICK TO IT! Avoid the common habit of expressing your love for your pet by constantly handing them treats. Mini rice cakes or carrot sticks are usually readily accepted by dogs and are a healthy alternative to more conventional, high-calorie treats.
Just like any change, it will be hard in the beginning, especially with those begging eyes peering at you. Resist the temptation to give in. Your pet will have a longer, healthier life…and a Happier New Year!
Doug McKee, DVM
Obesity in pets causes many of the same problems it does in people: diabetes, joint/ligament/tendon difficulties, breathing and heart maladies. Overweight cats can even develop skin problems from an inability to properly groom themselves. The overall impact on daily comfort and life-span can be dire indeed.
Some good news to consider is that pets can’t open the refrigerator like we can, nor are they licensed to drive to the local fast-food drive-thru window. What our pets eat is totally dependent on, well…us. Pets are usually up for a walk, a game of fetch, or play with a toy on a string even if we are not. Even if it’s not our favorite thing to do, why not give our pets the chance to play and shed those unhealthy extra pounds? After all, they love to move, especially if we are moving along with them.
Dogs and cats have some padding on their trunk normally…but not too much. You should be able to feel their ribs immediately under their skin. If there is a “fatty-pad” between the skin and ribs, your pet is probably overweight. The more “fatty-pad” present, the more overweight he or she likely is.
Remember though, crash diets are not good for pets. Fat cats especially can develop a potentially life-threatening fatty liver problem. It takes time for pets to get fat, and as such, they should be given time to change metabolism rates, eating habits, and exercise regimens to achieve a healthy loss of weight.
Where do you start? If your pet is truly overweight, the best place to start is at your veterinarian’s office. He or she can examine your pet and likely recommend tests that will make sure your pet doesn’t have any medical problems that might make lifestyle changes difficult or dangerous. Your pet’s doctor can also make diet recommendations that should help.
A few hints: Carve out some time to walk your dog or play with your cat at least three times a week. Anything that gets them running is usually best. Whatever food regimen you and your veterinarian come up with, STICK TO IT! Avoid the common habit of expressing your love for your pet by constantly handing them treats. Mini rice cakes or carrot sticks are usually readily accepted by dogs and are a healthy alternative to more conventional, high-calorie treats.
Just like any change, it will be hard in the beginning, especially with those begging eyes peering at you. Resist the temptation to give in. Your pet will have a longer, healthier life…and a Happier New Year!
Doug McKee, DVM
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