Obesity is a health problem that is becoming more and more common in pets, especially in indoor pets. Pets are gaining weight due to a number of different factors, and gaining excess weight can cause serious health problems in animals just as it can in humans. Understanding the causes of pet obesity, the health risks overweight pets face, and the weight management tips that can help keep pets healthy, active, and fit can help pet owners do their part.

What Is Pet Obesity

Pet obesity is characterized by the presence of excess body fat in an animal that is unhealthy. Vets consider pets to be overweight if they are 10 – 20 % more than their ideal weight, and when they exceed that weight range, they are considered to be obese.  Obesity slowly develops in both dogs and cats and often the owners don’t realize it until the pet starts experiencing health problems as well as mobility issues.

Main Reasons Pet Obesity Happens

In order to be able to prevent pet obesity, it is important to understand the factors that cause pet obesity. A number of factors can lead to pet weight gain.

Overfeeding

One of the top reasons pet obesity occurs, is due to people giving them way more food than necessary. Being given treats, food from the table, and larger than necessary portions is a sure way to put on weight.

Not Enough Exercise

The more sedentary a pet is, the less active they will be, the less weight will be burned. Cats in particular are sedentary pets indoors, and this causes a tendency to gain a lot of weight.

Age + Slower Metabolism

When pets are aging, they will naturally grind to a slower metabolism. In the case of dogs and cats, obesity is inevitable if diets and activities are not adjusted.

Neutering Or Spaying

Changes in hormones with post-neutering spaying surgery are likely to decrease a pet’s metabolism a little and likely make them feel hungry more. All of this is a recipe for weight gain if you do not control diet and exercise.

Breed + Genetic Influences

It becomes more crucial for regular diet and weight monitoring.

The Health Impact of Obesity on Pets

A severely overweight pet’s quality of life is sure to take a hit, and in some cases, this change may be presented in the form of life threatening conditions.

Problems with Mobility and Joints

The more weight on a pet’s body, the more the joints will be impacted, and the greater the chances are for issues with arthritis and mobility.

Diabetes

The more overweight a pet is, the the greater the chances are for diabetes, with cats being the most susceptible to this condition.

Heart and Lungs Problems

Excess weight creates tissue and fat around the heart and lungs, which makes it difficult for the pet’s heart and lungs to function and even makes it difficult for the pet to breathe and exercise.

Shorter Life Span

Research shows that pets with a healthy weight to body ratio have a decreased chance of a less than average life span compared with pets that are overweight.

Liver Problems

Obese cats can get a serious condition known as hepatic lipidosis, or unhealthy fatty liver.

With all of these health concerns, it is clear to see why it is very important to keep the weight of pets in check.

Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Weight

Managing the weight of your pets takes a lot of time and patience. Below are tips to manage your pet’s belly bulge.

• Give Proper Proportional Food
• Feed pets according to the recommended pet guide which is based on their age, breed, and their level of exercise.
• Be Frugal with Food Rewards
• Do not let your pet treats on a daily basis.
• Promote Burning of Energy
• Do not let your pet laze around the house.
• Make it Part of your Calendar for Your Pet and Your Vet to do Checkups
• Don’t let your vet’s advice on your pet’s weight fall on deaf ears.
• Follow the Vet’s New Plans

Your pet can go on a special food plan so that their weight can go down healthily.

Conclusion

Obesity can have severe consequences, but it can be prevented. Understanding the causes of pet obesity, knowing the dangers of an overweight pet, and properly managing a pet’s weight can help pet owners keep their companions healthy and vigorous.