Just like humans, animals’ body weight can change throughout their lifetime. Because we see our pets every day, it can be difficult to notice when extra pounds start adding up. October is Pet Obesity Awareness Month! In this month’s blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of pet obesity and how to tell if your pet is a healthy weight.
What Is Pet Obesity?
Your pet’s weight isn’t just cosmetic—it has plenty of health implications as well. Pet obesity is one of the most common nutritional problems our dogs and cats will encounter. In fact, according to a 2022 study, 59% of dogs and 61% of cats were classified as overweight or obese.
So what is pet obesity? It’s a medical condition in which a pet weighs 20% more than their ideal body weight. Pets that weigh 10-19% more than their ideal body weight are considered “overweight,” rather than “obese.”
The Dangers of Pet Obesity
Excess body fat can affect our pets in many ways. Some of the biggest risks include:
- Higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis
- Higher risk for elevated blood pressure and respiratory issues
- Decreased mobility, energy, and overall quality of life
Is Your Pet At Risk?
Any animal can become obese, but some animals are especially prone to weight issues. Common risk factors are:
- Breed: Dogs like Labradors, Dachshunds, and Pugs are more prone to becoming obese.
- Age: Older dogs and cats have slower metabolisms and may be less active, leading to weight gain
- Neuter status: Male animals who have been neutered are at higher risk
- Environment/lifestyle: Indoor-only cats and dogs with less active owners are more likely to experience pet obesity
Is My Pet A Healthy Weight?
Your pet’s ideal weight also depends on their breed, age, and health status. For example, pets with certain health conditions may have slower metabolisms and be more likely to gain weight regardless of diet and lifestyle.
So, how can you tell if your pet is a healthy weight? Regular weight checks and vet visits are key! We check each pet’s weight at every vet visit to establish a baseline. Drastic weight changes—both weight gain and weight loss—can be an early warning sign of health changes. Plus, being able to track changes over time gives us a more complete picture than just a single weigh-in.
If you’re worried about your pet’s weight, look at your pet and ask yourself:
- Can you feel the ribs easily without pressing hard?
- Can you see their waist from above?
- Is there an abdominal tuck from the side?
- Is there excess fat over the ribs, spine, base of the tail, or abdomen?
What Should I Do If My Pet Is Obese?
First, it’s important to rule out underlying health conditions! If you notice your pet gaining weight, talk to your vet about potential causes. If your pet’s health check comes back clean, it’s time to look at two big factors: diet and exercise.
Diet
Talk to your veterinarian about how much food your pet really needs in a day! They’ll determine your pet’s caloric needs based on age, current body condition, and health status. Once you know how many calories they need, always use a measuring cup to portion out meals and avoid overfeeding. Don’t forget that treats can add up! Try skipping table scraps and swapping high-calorie treats for fresh fruits and veggies.
Exercise
Consistent, daily activity isn’t only good for our pets’ mental health. It also boosts metabolism and helps maintain muscle mass! If your pet is severely overweight, start with short walks and play sessions and gradually increase the duration. Play sessions—fetch for dogs or playing with your cat’s toys—also increase your pets’ overall activity levels.
Your Pet Weight Management Partners!
At Pine Point Animal Hospital, we work with pet owners to understand their pets’ nutritional needs. By keeping pets at a healthy weight, we can prevent obesity-related complications. If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s weight, pet obesity, or your pet’s dietary needs, be sure to give us a call to schedule an appointment: 503-912-4477.