Obesity in pets is becoming a problem for our pet population. In this post, Oak Grove vets will go over the cause, symptoms, and treatment for this growing problem for our pets.
What is Wrong With My Pet Being a Chubby Cuddler?
We are not here to make your pet feel bad about their weight. We are concerned about the health of your pets and their long-term wellbeing. The issue is that your animal companion was bred to be a certain size from the beginning. When scaled up to human proportions, what seems like just a little bit of additional weight to a human is actually an enormous amount of weight.
Cause of Obesity in Pets
What could be causing our pets to become so chubby? The following is a list of some of the contributing factors to the additional 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
If your pet is overweight, they are more likely to develop a number of conditions, including the following:
- Cancers
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Respiratory distress
What to Do If Your Pet is Obese
It's unfortunate to have to say this, but diet and exercise are frequently the answers, just as they are for humans.
The first thing that needs to be done is to make an appointment with the veterinarian so that a checkup can be scheduled. This will ensure that there is no underlying condition that is causing the excess weight. Your veterinarian should be able to provide you with advice regarding the nutritional requirements of your pet as well as any health concerns that may have an impact on the type of diet and exercise routine that your pet is required to follow.
The next step is to put the recommendation made by the veterinarian into action. This indicates that you, as the owner of the pet, are going to have to show some strength and perseverance in order to adhere to a diet for the benefit of your pet. This means that they should no longer be fed scraps from the table, their portion sizes should be adjusted to match the advice of the veterinarian, and they should be given fewer treats that come in the form of food.
This also implies that you are going to have to initiate a routine of physical activity for your pet if you own a pet that is not confined to a tank or aquarium of some kind. Ask your vet about suitable exercises for your pet. If you have a pet that enjoys going for walks with its human companion, you are going to find that you are getting more exercise as a result.
In Summary
Your pet is putting themselves in harm's way when they are overweight. It is best to prevent health issues by providing them with a nutritious diet and plenty of opportunities for physical activity.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.