Obesity: An Epidemic Among Our Pets As Well

By Jennifer Johnson , CVA, CNA, ASVDT

It is estimated that nearly half of the dogs and cats in the United States are overweight, or obese. Obesity is the most common nutritional disease in dogs. Pets love to eat and, just like people, this love of food can pack on the pounds.  Major causes of obesity are overeating, lack of exercise, hormonal problems and improper feeding.  In older pets, slowing down of the metabolism is another contributor to obesity. It is our natural tendency to feed our pets the same amount of food in their older years as we do in their younger years. Ask your Veterinarian or staff for feeding guidelines for the life stage your pet is in.

Overweight dogs and cats are at greater risk of a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and back problems. Many obese pets pant or gasp after only mild exercise or during routine day-to-day activity.

An easy way to detect obesity is to feel the ribs and backbone. These areas should be easily felt, with just a small amount of underlying fat. If you can pinch an inch of fat or more over their ribs then there is a good chance that your pet is overweight. Weight gain in pets, just like us, is caused by  too many calories and not enough  exercise.  

Avoid feeding snacks and table scraps.  Although tasty and fun, treats contain many more calories than you think.  Table scraps can be high in calories and fat and can sometimes cause other health problems.  Regular exercise can be difficult during August because of the heat, so plan on walks early in the morning or late at night.  Watch closely for sign of overheating and be ready to shorten the walk if needed.  Playing in water, during this hot time of year is a great way to get some exercise.

Remember, WE control what they eat.  Weight loss and improved health can be achieved if you remain committed and put your pet's health first. Come in anytime at Murphy Road Animal Hospital and get a free weight and body condition analysis along with diet and exercise recommendations. We will customize a plan for you and your pet and work together to achieve a healthy, happy life!