Alongside their human companions, our furry friends have also increasingly struggled with weight gain and obesity. With almost 100 million pets in the US being classified as overweight or obese, weight has become the leading health threat to our nation’s companion animals today. On this Pet Obesity Awareness Day, I would like to highlight some important information for pet parents to tackle this increasing challenge.
CAUSES
LACK OF AWARENESS.With obesity becoming so common in pets, pet parents often don’t recognize excessive weight in their pets, resulting in action steps to deal with the weight gain being delayed.
LACK OF COMPLIANCE - It can be challenging for pet parents to comply with portion control or weight maintenance programs for pets, especially in multi-pet homes.
GENETIC COMPONENTS
OVERFEEEDING - through unmeasured food and table scraps
FEEDING FOR EMOTIONAL REASONS - Showing love to pets through extra feeding and excessive treats
LACK OF ADEQUATE EXERCISE
CONTROL AND PREVENTION
Maintain regular, scheduled wellness exams with veterinarians to assess overall health, monitor weight, and establish optimal dietary programs
Begin healthy weight maintenance at spay/neuter
Maintain a consistent diet for pet
Avoid table scraps and limit treats
Establish and maintain a regular and fun exercise routine
Try to replace food as a reward with extra play time, holding or petting