Pet Obesity

Happy weekend all you pet people. I hope everyone has a chance to get out and enjoy the weekend with his or her pets. That’s right, off the couch and get out there. If fact, today let’s talk about weight control for our pets.

Obesity is a major problem for pets and as many as 40% of our pets are overweight. The potential health threatening complications of obesity can affect every body system. Unfortunately, life span is shortened and quality of life diminished because of obesity. Weight control for pets is not difficult but it does take some commitment. Begging and those pleading eyes are tough to resist, but believe me; the willpower needed to establish a weigh loss program and change your pet’s condition is much easier than our own.

First, get an objective evaluation on your pet’s body condition. Obese pets are metabolically different. Your veterinarian can help by assessing your pet’s current health with a complete physical examination and laboratory tests to detect any underlying metabolic conditions. Then an optimum body weight can be established for your pet.

Next we must change our behavior toward our pets. A full bowl is no way to love your pet. Feed measured meals often split into multiple feedings. Multiple pets and different body conditions may need to feed separately. We must control the treats we give our pets. Most commercial treats and table scraps are loaded with excess calories.

Next comes exercise. Dogs need regular walks; ball chasing or some activity rather than just a daily run to the door or window to bark at a delivery person. Cats may need interactive toys such as a feather on the end of a fishing pole or a laser pointer or flashlight. Some cats can be trained to take walks on a harness if started while they are young.

Diet is extremely important in our weight loss program. Restricting calories is not the only answer. By just cutting back on the amount we feed, we may over time establish a malnutrition problem with such nutrients as vitamins and minerals. Today we have diets specifically formulated for weight loss that address the unique metabolic state of an obese pet. These are prescription diets that are not available at pet stores and grocery stores. I specifically like Eukanuba’s Restricted Calorie for weight loss in that while it is lower in calories, it promotes less fat storage and maintains lean muscle mass. The higher fiber weight loss diets seem to keep the pet hungry and the stool volume can be substantial. Once we meet our optimal weight and body condition, then we can get our pet on a number of good maintenance diets to keep the weight under control.

Obesity is a vicious cycle in that overweight, less active pets continue to be overweight and less active. We are in a position to turn this trend around. A healthier, happier pet will be the result. It may even inspire some of us to improve our body condition, present company included.

Dr. James Speas is the owner and Executive Director of Crescenta Cañada Pet Hospital located in La Crescenta, California. He has developed a personal philosophy in the area of veterinary medicine – to always work in the direction of preventing problems before occur. Dr. Speas and his staff are proud to serve the pet communities of La Crescenta, La Canada, Glendale, Pasadena, Sunland, and Tujunga California. Call us at 818-248-3963.