Do You Have an Overweight Dog? Here's Some Help
Do You Have an Overweight Dog? Here's Some Help
According to many veterinarians, obesity is the most common nutrition-related problem of dogs and cats. By some estimates, overweight pets make up 25 to 40 percent of the dog and cat population.
Pet obesity can lead to many serious conditions such as diabetes, joint damage, heart disease, digestive problems and difficulty in breathing just to name a few.
How to tell if your pet is overweight
Obesity is the excessive collection of body fat. A pet's ribs should be easy to feel. But your pet's ribs should not be overly exposed.
If you think that your pet is heading toward obesity, check with your vet to determine what steps to start taking. There are degrees of pet obesity so if your pet is not yet so overweight that you need to change to a special weight loss food, here are some tips:
Don't let your pet control what he eats. Cut back on the amount you feed. Dogs, in particular are great at begging and using a sad face to get more food. If he looks really hungry after he finishes his bowl of food, give him some low calorie foods such as apples or carrots as long as it doesn't upset his tummy
Feed appropriate snacks. Look for nutritious pet treats which add some nutritional value to the pet's menu. Many treats bought in a store are too fattening.
The overweight pet needs additional exercise opportunities at least a couple of times per week. Take longer walks than usual or give him more play time. Never give him too much exercise. Make sure that any outdoor activity is not during the hot part of the day.
Changing your pet's food
The veterinarian may say that a different food is needed to help your overweight pet. Choose a high quality, nutritious pet food with lower fat and caloric values but one that has sufficient fatty acids. Without the fatty acids, the pet's coat can become dry and itchy.
As with human diets, weight loss should be gradual. It may take 8 to 12 months for the pet to lose the necessary weight so don't be discouraged.
As with any food change, change the food gradually so the pet's digestion system is not upset. Check with the vet to determine how long to keep him on the weight loss food as it may not be healthy to keep him on this food for an extended period.
Most weight loss dog foods are not nutritionally balanced. However, there is some weight loss food available that is properly balanced and is a high quality, nutritious pet food.
How to prevent an overweight dog
To state the obvious, start with good nutrition and regular veterinary visits to monitor his weight.
Choose a pet food with healthy, nutritional ingredients in the proper balance. Feed the correct amounts. Sometimes, a pet may not need as much as the directions say on the bag. See the section of this article, "How to tell if your pet is overweight."
You can tell if your pet starts to gain weight and adjust food amounts and snacks accordingly. Check with your vet if you are not sure.
Pets need regular exercise. The amount of exercise depends on the age, breed and physical condition of the pet. Younger pets need more exercise because of their high energy level. Older pets or pets with joint or other problems need less activity.
Watch your pet's food intake and do not let him eat too much. Don't feed too many treats or table food that may have too much fat, sugar, or salt for dogs.
Never leave the food for your pet so he can graze throughout the day.
Pets often eat out of boredom. If your pet must be left alone for long periods, provide toys that will stimulate him. There are some toys that contain treats. The overweight pet must work with the toy in order to get the treat out. These can give him some stimulation while you are away.
Feed only high quality, nutritious treats. The treat should be functional and not be a snack where the sole purpose is to reduce his hunger.
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