June Article

Take Steps to Keep Pets Healthy Weight

Dear Doctor:
My Beagle and my two cats seem to be gaining weight. I leave food out for them and have not changed the brand of food - should I be concerned?
Signed, Veronica from Plover

Great question, Veronica. I actually need to be careful with my youngest cat, Milton - he loves food, and will push my other cat and my two adult Labradors from their food bowls, if given the chance! He would get into the cupboards for food, so I had to make some drastic changes if I wanted to keep him at a healthy weight.

Most people understand that it is not "healthy" for their pet to be overweight, yet it is one of the most common problems we encounter on a daily basis at our clinic (second only to dental disease). Overweight and obese pets are more prone to additional problems, such as arthritis, lameness, heart disease, lung and airway problems, skin disease, urinary issues, and diabetes. As such, the quality of life, energy level, and longevity are all affected in a negative way.

As long as your pets do not have an underlying medical concern, weight loss can be achieved by the age-old technique: consume fewer calories and increase calories used. This simply means that the ideal number of calories needs to be determined for your pet, the appropriate amount of high quality food measured out at each meal, and an extra walk or play session scheduled each day (think of it as more quality time with your pet!). You can still provide treats, trying to use pieces of your current dry food, fruits or veggies (avoid onions, garlic, grapes and raisins).

Even with good intentions, we do find that only a few people will make a serious effort to help their pet to lose weight. To achieve your goals for weight loss for your pets, it may mean that you need to change your routine to provide pre-measured meals and additional play sessions, but it is well worth the effort.

Understandably, those dogs and cats that love food make it difficult to ignore their begging, but it is important that we do not give food and treats as a token of our love and affection. If you help your pets to maintain a healthy weight, you will be able to love them for a longer time, and they will have the best possible quality of life while they are with you.

I am proud to say that Milton is at a healthy weight now, but I needed to schedule meal times for the cats, separate from the dogs, supervising while they eat. I have a set routine to keep Milton active - if only he would use my treadmill!

If you want help to set up a weight loss plan for your pets, your veterinarian may be able to offer specific suggestions and calculate the amount of calories to offer your pets. You may ask to use your veterinarian's scale to monitor your pet's progress. Good luck - I know you can do this, for the health of your pets!