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Statistics show that about one in four North American adults are considered obese. But, this epidemic is not limited to our continent nor is it confined to our species. More than half of our dogs and cats are overweight or obese. So, should your pet start an Atkins Diet? According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 43% of all dogs and 53% of all cats are classified as overweight. What’s worse, an additional 10% of all dogs and 19% of all cats are considered obese! These expanding numbers are a warning sign of our pets’ expanding waistlines! Veterinarians and pet owners are showing concern over the increase in numbers of portly pets. An overweight pet is more prone to heart problems, poor skin condition, lameness, and serious illnesses, like diabetes. A ground-breaking study actually details how pets who free feed live an average of two years less than pets with limited calories. Other factors can add to your pet’s propensity for weight gain too. Specific breeds, such as Labradors and Cockers, are at higher risk for becoming chubby as are most non-purebred cats. And, although spaying and neutering your pet won’t make them fat, their metabolism and energy needs actually do decrease. This means that neutered pets are at a higher risk for gaining weight if we don’t pay attention to their diet and exercise.
Without realizing it, many owners contribute to pet obesity through good intentions. Some pets get twice as many meals each day because no one is in charge of feeding. APOP says that pet owners should open a dialogue with their veterinarian about their pet’s weight. Most pet owners know their pet is overweight but many are unsure of how to proceed. The very first step should be a good thorough physical examination and associated blood work. This will help rule out diseases that cause weight gain, like hypothyroidism in dogs. Next, devise a diet plan with your veterinarian for safely reducing the number of calories being fed while also increasing the calories being burned through activity. Veterinarians recommend avoiding a self feeder or leaving food out for our pets all day long. Like us, our pets will do better if they eat small meals more frequently rather than one large meal in the evening. Finally, make exercise a priority. Two or more brisk walks each day for our pudgy pooches and thirty minutes of playtime with your flabby tabby can help them lose that excess weight. Above all, stay in communication with your veterinarian. You may run into temporary setbacks or even obstacles which will require a revision of your pet’s diet plan. With your love and commitment, your pet can lose that excess poundage which, in turn, could add years to your pet’s life. To learn more about weight loss and our pets, visit www.MyVNN.com to see an informative video.
Sara Lash, DVM
Healthy Pets Mobile Vet
www.drsaralash.com
919-329-7387(PETS)
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