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How to help pets shed extra pounds
Pet owners can keep these tips in mind as they seek to help their companion animals lose weight .
Overweight and obesity can affect the family pet . Carrying excess weight has similar consequences for dogs and cats as it does for people , namely increasing risk for certain diseases . According to the pet retailer Chewy , being overweight can contribute to hip dysplasia , osteoarthritis , high blood pressure , diabetes , and even some forms of cancer .
It is vital for pet parents to help their companion animals maintain a healthy weight . Despite this , Rover . com says more than half of America ’ s dogs can be classified as overweight . A healthy weight range varies depending on the breed and age of the pet . However , individuals can speak to their veterinarians to identify an ideal weight for their furry friend . In fact , it is always advisable to maintain a dialogue with a veterinarian regarding a pet ’ s weight , especially when the pet is a cat . According to VCA Animal Hospitals , feline physiology differs from humans and canine physiology . If a cat does not eat for as little as two consecutive days , it can develop a life-threatening liver disease called hepatic lipidosis .
• Get ready to count calories and adjust food accordingly to create a calorie deficit that is right for your pet . Most pets need less food than their owners may think . In addition , the food measurements on pet food bags tend to overestimate the amount of feeding . Determine calorie need and then measure carefully . Also , cut back on allowing animals to eat treats and table scraps .
• Consider a specialty food that is designed to balance nutritional needs . Many “ diet ” foods contain higher amounts of protein or fiber to help the pet feel fuller , rather than other foods that offer more carbohydrates and fillers . The food may be more expensive , but it will come with the benefit of potentially helping your pet have a better quality of life after it loses excess weight .
• Introduce new foods gradually as many pets can be finicky eaters . VCA Animal Hospitals says to transition cats with one-quarter of the new food and three-quarters of the old one for four to five days , then slowly increase the proportion of new food . It may take cats between two and three weeks to start eating a new food . Wet foods tend to be more palatable to picky cats than dry foods .
• Use a slow feeder to help your pet drag out feedings to feel satiated with less food .
• Increase exercise by taking dogs on more walks and engaging in active play with cats whenever possible . Adding 30 to 60 minutes to walks can help , and using a laser pointer for cats to chase can help them burn energy and shed excess pounds .
• Move the food bowl around the house so that pets have to travel to find it , thus exerting energy . Cats in particular may lounge near bowls for an easy meal .
• Rather than one large meal a day , split up feedings to two to three times per day to stretch satiety across the day .
• Keep the water bowl full . Sometimes dehydration can mimic the symptoms of hunger . Plenty of fresh water also can help pets feel full .
These steps can help pets lose weight and feel better . Vets may suggest certain intervals for weigh-ins to monitor progress . n
66 January 2024 | Thomasville Scene