Let’s be honest: chubby pets are undeniably cute. Those round bellies and squishy faces are hard to resist. But while a little extra fluff might make for adorable photos, it can have a serious impact on your pet’s health.
Overweight pets face a higher risk of developing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. Just like in people, carrying too much weight can also shorten your pet’s lifespan.
We at Crestway Animal Clinic understand how much you care for and love your pets. For this reason, we’re offering helpful, kind tips to help you properly control your pet’s weight without turning your house into a permanent diet camp. Let’s take a closer look at ways to keep your pet healthy and happy.
Know What a Healthy Weight Looks Like
Knowing what a healthy weight is is the first step in controlling your pet’s weight. The number on the scale isn’t all that matters. The recommended weight range for each breed varies, and a Body Condition Score (BCS) is the most accurate method of assessing your pet.
This entails determining whether your pet has a noticeable waist when viewed from above, whether you can readily feel their ribs without applying too much pressure, and whether their abdominal area has a natural tuck when viewed from the side. If you’re not sure, don’t worry; we can simply check this at a routine exam.
Measure Meals
It’s really easy to overfeed pets, especially if we just eyeball their meals. Perhaps your pet needs more than “just one scoop.” Accurately portion your pet’s food using a kitchen scale or measuring cup rather than relying on guesswork. Start by looking at the food label’s feeding recommendations, but keep in mind that these are usually estimations.
Your veterinarian can assist in determining the appropriate daily caloric intake for your pet based on factors such as breed, size, age, activity level, and desired weight. Treats should make up only a small portion of your pet’s daily calories, ideally no more than 10 percent.
Ditch the Free-Feeding
Convenient as it may be, leaving a full bowl out all day encourages overeating, particularly in cats and small dogs. Instead, switch to one or two scheduled meals per day. In addition to helping with portion control, this lets you keep an eye on how much your pet eats and spot any changes in appetite that might be early warning indicators of disease. Additionally, regular feeding makes life easier for everyone by fostering consistent potty habits.
Choose the Right Food
Giving your pet a nutritious, suitable diet is essential. Certain pet feeds that are labeled as “natural” or “premium” may nonetheless be heavy in calories or deficient in vital nutrients because not all pet foods are made equal.
Whether your pet is a growing puppy or kitten, an energetic adult, or a slower-moving senior, make sure the food is labeled as “complete and balanced” and suitable for their life stage. Your veterinarian may suggest a weight-management formula or even a prescription diet for pets that need to lose weight. These diets are made to help pets lose fat while keeping lean muscle mass.
Incorporate Exercise
Pets require physical activity to keep healthy, just like people do. Dogs may benefit from daily walks, outings to the dog park, or even backyard fetch sessions. Hours of vigorous exercise are not necessary; even 20 to 30 minutes a day can have a significant impact.
For indoor cats, exercise may take a slightly different form. Use cardboard boxes, feather wands, or even laser toys to promote mental and physical activity. Some cats like to scale towers or solve interactive feeding puzzles that require them to exert some effort to get their food.
Use Food Puzzles or Slow Feeders
Many pets eat their food in seconds. That might seem normal, but fast eating can lead to issues like choking, gas, and unnecessary weight gain. Slow feeders or food puzzles are great tools to help your pet eat more slowly and feel full sooner.
They also provide mental stimulation, which is especially helpful for pets that tend to get bored during the day. Mealtime can become both fun and beneficial with the right feeding tools.
Watch Those Treats and Table Scraps
Giving treats is one of the best parts of having a pet. But those treats can add up quickly in calories. Instead of giving multiple large treats a day, try offering tiny pieces or even using part of their regular kibble as a reward. If you want to switch it up, consider healthy alternatives like small bits of carrots, green beans, or plain cooked chicken.
As tempting as it may be to share your dinner, it’s best to avoid giving your pet table scraps. Foods high in fat, sugar, or salt can be harmful and add unnecessary calories that derail their weight goals.
Track Progress (But Be Patient)
Helping your pet lose weight is a long-term effort that requires consistency. You should strive for a small, consistent decrease, often one to two percent of your pet’s body weight per week. Rapid weight loss, particularly in cats, can be harmful and may result in liver problems.
Keep track of your pet’s weight, activity level, and dietary preferences. Celebrate small victories, such as getting into an old harness or having more energy for outings. These are indications that your hard work is paying off.
Partner with Your Veterinarian
You don’t have to go it alone. Your veterinarian is your best resource when it comes to managing your pet’s weight. During a wellness exam, we can evaluate your pet’s body condition, rule out underlying health issues, and work with you to develop a realistic weight management plan.
Some pets gain weight due to hormonal imbalances, reduced mobility, or medications. A professional assessment ensures you’re treating the right issue, not just the symptoms. We’ll also monitor your pet’s progress over time and make adjustments as needed.
Make It a Family Effort
Consistency is key, and it takes a team to stick to a healthy routine. Ensure that everyone in your household understands what must be done. That means no sneaky table scraps under the dinner table and no “secret treats” from well-meaning family members.
Post a feeding chart on the fridge if needed, so everyone knows what your pet has eaten that day. When the whole family works together, your pet’s chances of success go way up.
Final Thoughts: A Healthy Pet Is a Happy Pet
Helping your pet reach and maintain a healthy weight is one of the most loving things you can do. It may take a bit of planning, some consistency, and the occasional tough moment when you say “no” to begging eyes, but the payoff is worth it. Your pet will have more energy, fewer health issues, and potentially even more years to spend with you.
Crestway Animal Clinic is dedicated to keeping pets healthy, including helping them maintain a healthy weight. Whether you need diet advice, want to talk about fitness regimens, or believe your pet is at risk for weight-related problems, we’re here to help. To schedule a visit, please call us at (210) 657-6747 or visit www.crestway-animal-clinic.com.
