New Year’s Resolution for Your Pet

Many Americans have set New Year’s resolutions regarding their weight. After the holidays, many of us find ourselves with a few extra pounds and understand the need to get to or maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a national epidemic and we are seeing the toll it is taking on society in health care costs and other ways. But did you know that obesity is also affecting our pets?

Recent statistics show that as many as 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the US are overweight or obese.1 Dogs are considered overweight when they weigh 10-30%above their ideal body weight. Anything above 30% is considered obese. Cats also follow a similar standard. Sadly, this is a health crisis for our beloved pets, but it is a problem that is all too often overlooked.

Just like us, on overweight dog or cat may have problems with many diseases and health concerns such as:
• Type 2 diabetes
• Osteoarthritis
• High blood pressure
• Skin disease
• Thyroid problems
• Seizures
• Heart and respiratory disease
• Kidney disease
• Certain types of cancer
• Decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years)

So, how do we help our beloved pet lose weight? What can we do to ensure that Fido or Fifi lives a long and healthy life? Here are some tips to get the new year off to a better start for your pet.

Visit Your Vet
First, have your pet evaluated by your veterinarian and routine bloodwork performed to rule out systemic disease. Many times, weight gain can be caused by systemic illnesses such as hypothyroid.

Measure Meals
Have your veterinarian establish the ideal body weight that your pet should be at and make that your pet’s goal weight. Once the ideal body weight has been established, feed your pet the recommended amount according to his ideal body weight to help your obese dog shed the extra pounds.

Establish a Feeding Schedule
Many obese dogs graze on food all day that is left out for them. With overweight pets, measure out the exact amount of food they should be getting, and give it to your pet at scheduled times throughout the day.

Cut Down on Treats
This is a tough one, but people do not realize how many calories treats can contribute to their pet’s diet. Just cutting out the treats alone, or switching to low-fat treats, can result in weight loss for your pet.

Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
Just like us, pets need to exercise to lose weight – especially overweight dogs. Dog toys can help encourage exercise for your obese dog. Taking walks with them is also good for both your pet and for you!

Consider Switching Diets
Finally, if your pet is not responding to decreasing the treats, or the proper amount of food and exercise, please speak with your veterinarian regarding a low-fat diet. There are a number of pet foods on the market that can help your pet get the right nutrients while cutting calories at the same time.2

How can the right diet help your pet’s overall health?
At Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital, we can help you make the right dietary changes for your pet so that they can stay on track living their happy and healthy lives. A healthy diet and good nutrition can reduce or even eliminate the following problems:
• Pet allergies
• Itching and scratching
• Dull coat
• Arthritis
• Joint and hip problems
• Intestinal disorders

Skin and coat supplements are a great way to keep your pet looking and feeling their best. Arthritis and joint supplements can be helpful for many pets as they age.

1. Understanding obesity and weight loss in dogs and cats, A Growing Problem
– Obesity and Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats | Morris Animal Foundation.
Available at: https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/weight-loss-in-cats-and-dogs.
2. Editorial, C. (2021) Your pet’s New Year’s resolution weight loss plan, BeChewy. Chewy. Available at: https://be.chewy.com/your-pets-new-years-
resolution-weight-loss-plan/?utm_id=401549963.

Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital in Naples offers the most up to date and progressive veterinary services for your pets. Ranging from laser surgery, ultrasound, dental X-rays, radiology, full pharmacy, and in house diagnostics, Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital provides your pets with the necessary options for treatment.

Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital

239-431-9667
www.aovethospital.com