Obesity in pets is becoming a problem for our pet population. In this post Brookhaven vets will go over the cause, symptoms, and treatment for this growing problem for our pets.
What is Wrong With My Pet Being Chubby?
We are not here to fat shame your pet. We are concerned about your pets' health and longevity. The problem is that your pet was bred to be a certain weight. What seems like a little extra weight to a human is a massive amount of weight when scaled up to human proportions.
Cause of Obesity in Pets
Why are our pets getting extra chunky? Here are some of the factors that play into the extra weight:
- Type of pet - some pets are more likely to eat too much or receive less exercise (try getting your fish on an exercise routine).
- Age - As pets get older they are less active and can put on the pounds easier.
- Sex - Females of many species tend to gain weight easier than their male counterparts.
- Owner - You the pet parent are the one who controls the access to food, treats, and exercise times.
Problems With Links to Obesity
Many conditions become more likely if your pet is overweight such as:
- Cancers
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Respiratory distress
What to Do If Your Pet is Obese
Sorry to say it but the solution is often the same one as for humans, diet and exercise.
The first step is to go to the vet to see about a check-up to make sure there is no underlining cause of the extra weight. Your vet should be able to advise you on the nutritional needs of your pet and any health concerns that could affect the diet and exercise routine your pet will need.
Next is putting into practice the suggestion of the vet. That means that you, the pet parent, are going to have to be strong and stick to a diet for the good of your pet. That means no more table scraps, feeding them a portion of food according to the vet’s recommendation, and limiting the treats in the form of food.
This also means that if you have a pet that is not confined to an aquarium you are going to have to start an exercise program for your pet. Ask your vet about suitable exercises for your pet. For those who have pets that go for walks with their humans, you are going to also be getting more exercise.
In Summary
Being overweight is dangerous for your pet. Best to set them up with a good diet and plenty of exercise to avoid health problems.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.