Every pet wants to eat more than they actually can. If you give them food non-stop, they continue to eat that no matter what. So, if your pet was fat and you try to keep his weight under control, or you just want to prevent the obesity, all you have to do is to follow these tips.
Know how much food your pet requires per day
Ever read the back of your pet’s food? We know, it can make your head spin, but it’s important to note the handy chart that tells you how much to serve at each meal. If you’re confused, ask a professional about portions.
“Different animals have individual nutritional requirements based on their age, size, neuter status, lifestyle and activity levels,” says Simms. “A growing active puppy needs more calories versus a sedentary 8-year-old dog. Consult with your veterinarian regarding how many calories your pet needs a day and stick to it.”
Avoid giving table scraps to cats and dogs
If your pet moonlights as a household dishwasher, that needs to stop for a host of reasons. “It encourages bad behavior,” explains Simms, such as begging and table surfing.
Additionally, there are many human foods that could make your pet ill, or worse, threaten their life. Grapes, onions, and chocolate are just some of the foods that are toxic to pets. “Not all human food is safe to be consumed by dogs and cats,” Simms warns.
Exercise your pet daily
You fit a solid workout into your busy schedule and you should do the same for your dog or cat. Your dog’s health will benefit exponentially from daily walks, and cats who engage in regular playtime will burn more calories than kitty couch potatoes. Plus, keeping them active prevents boredom. “This improves their quality of life as well as their metabolism,” Simms adds.
Serve cats canned food
Think of a feline’s free-flowing dry food as an endless bag of potato chips — delicious, but definitely not conducive to a healthy lifestyle. Sure, wet food can be more costly, but the health benefits are priceless. “For cats, giving all canned food versus ad lib dry food prevents obesity and keeps their urinary system healthy,” she explains.
Give healthy treats at regulated amounts
Human, it’s your job to maintain a tight grip on those treats! Don’t just hand them out willy nilly. And before you bring pet treats into your home, check the labels for high-quality ingredients and note feeding information. “Be aware of the kinds of treats you are giving to your pets,” says Simms. “Some treats, albeit small, may be very calorie-dense, so one or two per day may suffice.”
As an alternative to processed treats, why not try something garden fresh? “Raw carrots and string beans make good treats especially if your pet already has a weight problem,” she adds.
Take your dog or cat to the veterinarian on a regular basis
If you want a furry friend with Jane Fonda-like longevity and vigor, you’ve got to keep up with regular health checks — it’s just common sense. Simms recommends that you take your pet to the vet every six months. If your pet is gaining weight, an exam can help determine why. “Some pets who have weight issues may have thyroid problems,” she says.
It’s also important to address issues that can arise when a pet is carrying excess weight. “Being overweight is tough on pre-existing joint disease, causing stress on joints and predisposing pets to ligamentous injuries,” Simms explains. “It can also lead to pre-diabetic states, liver and urinary issues.”
Us Weekly articles and content are for informational purposes only. Nothing contained in Us Weekly articles and/or content is or should be considered, or used as a substitute for, veterinary or professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you believe your pet may have a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.