Tips On Managing Your Pet's Weight

January 2006

More than 3 million dogs and cats in the Untied States are overweight or obese.  If left untreated, obesity can lead to many heath problems including:

     - Heart disease and breathing problems

     - Arthritis and joint problems

     - Diabetes mellitus

This information can help you care for your overweight or obese pet.  With proper nutrition and changes in lifestyle, your pet can lose weight safely, effectively and without feeling hungry.

A healthy dog is a happy one!

Weigh In For Health

Regular weight checks will help you and your veterinarian monitor your pet's weight and overall health.  Talk to your veterinarian about your pet's ideal weight and find out what you can do to help.

Through your efforts and the help of your veterinary health care team, your pet can be healthier, happier and more active.

Common Causes Of Weight Gain

1. Overeating - Pets who are fed high-calorie foods and treats or too much food tend to gain weight.

2. Disease - Weight gain can be the result of a medical disorder.

3. Neutering/Spaying - Increases the risk of weight gain.

4. Decreased Activity - Pets that don't get enough exercise are more likely to gain weight and may need fewer calories.

5. Age - Older pets are often less active, requiring fewer calories.

Home Care

1. Make a total commitment to help your pet lose weight.

2. Follow your veterinarian's feeding recommendations.

3. If feeding a high fiber food, increase your pet's water intake.

4. Avoid feeding your pet table scraps.

5. Divide the total amount to be fed each day into 3 or 4 smaller meals.

6. Regular, moderate exercise will help your pet.  Ask your veterinarian for advice.

7. Monitor your pet's weight regularly.

Feeding The Best Nutrition For Effective Weight Loss

Feeding an effective weight loss or weight maintenance food helps achieve and maintain an ideal body weight.  The right foods will result in safe, effective weight management while helping your pet feel full.

Work with your veterinarian to choose the best food for your pet's healthy and effective weight loss.

Body Condition Scoring Chart

Body condition is one scoring method you can use to determine if your pet's

size, weight and feeding schedules are within an acceptable range.

Feeding Tips

1. Always follow your veterinarian's recommendations.

2. Mix increasing amounts of any new food with decreasing amounts

3. If your pet is reluctant to try a new food, warm the canned product to body temperature, hand feed or mix the dry food with warm water (dog food only).  Remove within an hour, and wash the dish to avoid spoilage and bacterial growth.

4. Be patient but firm with your pet, because success depends on strict adherence to the new food.

For more information please discuss this with your veterinarian during your next visit.

 

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