Obesity and Pets
By: Dr. Courtney Sherlock
It is common knowledge that our society is becoming more and more obese every year. Unfortunately this trend is also occurring with our furry family members as well. Although there is not always a connection between obesity in owners and obesity in pets, these animals are getting larger for the same reason people are: food issues and not enough exercise.
Obesity in pets causes a lot of the same problems it does in people. An overweight pet is prone to a host of related problems, including diabetes, joint, ligament and tendon problems, breathing and heart problems. Overweight cats can even develop skin problems from not being able to groom themselves properly. Overall, fat pets face lives that are often uncomfortable and shorter. A recent study reported a decrease in 1.8 years on the lifespan of dogs who were overweight compared to their litter mates who had an ideal body condition score.
The good news is that it’s not that difficult to trim down pets. After all, they can’t open the refrigerator on their own, nor can they grab the car keys for a fast-food run or phone out for pizza. What pets eat is wholly dependent on what we give them. And although we might shudder at the idea of exercise, our pets are always up for a brisk walk, a game of fetch or some play with a toy on a string. They love to move, especially if we’re moving with them.
Is your pet overweight? Healthy pets have some padding over them, but a little is plenty. Rub your hands over your pet’s ribs. The skin should move easily back and forth, and you should be able to feel the ribs. Your pet should have a definable “waist” at the bottom of the rib cage, a small tuck-in at the stomach. From above, a bump out from the middle into an apple shape is equally bad news. And it’s not just dogs and cats in trouble: Birds can be obese, too, developing a thicker breast and even rolls of fat.
Crash diets aren’t good for pets, especially not for fat cats, who can develop a fatal liver problem if forced to reduce too quickly. A pet doesn’t get fat overnight, and he shouldn’t be forced to change course any more rapidly. What you’ll need to do is change your pet’s eating and exercise habits gradually.
The best place to start is with a trip to your veterinarian. You’ll want to make sure your pet doesn’t have any problems that might make any lifestyle changes difficult. Your vet can also suggest a food plan that might help. Whatever food regimen you and your veterinary team decide on, be determined to stick to it. Get out of the habit of expressing your love for your pets by handing them pet treats. Keep the treat volume to a minimum, and switch to a reduced-calorie treat. (Don’t use reduced calories as an excuse to give more.)
Carve some time out of your schedule to walk your dog or play with your cat — three times a week, at least. Be sure to work in some aerobic exercise, anything that gets a cat or dog running.
Yes, it’ll be hard in the beginning, what with those begging eyes and all. But don’t give in. Your pet’s life will be happier and longer if he’s in the best of health. If you have any questions or concerns please call your veterinarian, or feel free to drop in anytime to use the scale in order to monitor your pets weight loss. Village Veterinary Hospital has several weight loss programs available for you to use at any time.