More and more dogs are getting obese. Vets are warning owners to have their pet checked out for health concerns related to unnatural weight gain.
“Obesity in animals can cause a variety of health-related problems and may even shorten the lifespan of your beloved pet. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to become informed on the issue and find a healthy way to get your pet’s weight back on track, “ says Jessica Remitz in “Overweight Pets: Addressing the Epidemic (Battling the Bulge)” in PetMD.com.
Causes of obesity
Katie Grzyb, a vet at the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group in Brooklyn, NY, said pets become overweight for several reasons:
1. too much caloric intake,
2. too little exercise,
3. too frequent feedings, and
4. consuming table scraps or food made for people.
Treats also contribute a lot to obesity, Remitz said.
Pets, unlike humans, have a difficult time controlling themselves when offered food and treats, said Remitz.
“Most pets are always happy to eat,” she added.
“’Many pet owners feel that feeding their pets treats or several meals a day helps them bond and shows their pet that they are loved,’” Dr. Grzyb said.
“In actuality, feeding too much or [giving them] the wrong kinds of food can be harmful and cause long term problems,” said Dr. Grzyb said.
Effect of Obesity on Your Pet
Health conditions may arise due to obesity.
These are: hip dysplasia, osteroarthritis, pancreatitis, and diabetes, kidney and heart disease, high blood pressure, and many forms of cancer, among others.
A shortened life expectancy is also associated with overweight pets.
Helping an overweight pet
It is never too late to help an overweight pet get back on track.
In “7 Surprising Ways To Help Your Pet Lose Weight (And Why It’s Important)” in Pet Health Network, Dr. Ernie Ward (DVMP listed ways to help your pet lose weight.
1. Count the calories
Please ask your vet how to compute the ideal number of calories for your pet.
Here is a formula for computing the proper number of calories:
a. Divide your pet’s weight by 2.2.
b. Multiply this figure times 30.
c. Add 70 and you will have a general idea of how many calories you should be feeding a typical inactive, indoor spayed or neutered dog or cat weighing between 6 and 60 pounds.
** [(pet’s weight in lbs/2.2) x 30] +70 **
“Of course, each pet’s metabolism is different so be sure to consult your veterinarian before starting a diet,” Ward said.
2. Measure the food
Do not simply fill the bowl. Ward said it is best to use a measuring cup and to stop giving an “all-day-buffet” to pets.
3. Tactical treating
Choose the treats you give your pets, Ward said.
“Too many pet treats are what I call ‘calorie grenades’ laden with sugar and fat blowing up our pet’s waistlines and destroying their health,” Ward said.
“Choose low-calorie, no-sugar goodies that provide a health benefit. I like single ingredient treats such as sweet potato, salmon, and blueberry bites or functional treats that provide a bonus such as helping to keep teeth clean or promote mobility. Whatever treats you give, be sure to count those additional calories. Many pet owners feed the proper amount of food but sabotage their efforts by adding one or two snacks throughout the day. As few as 30 extra calories per day means your pet gains over three pounds in a year,” Ward stressed.
Ward also advised that a pet owner break treats and give them only as a reward for good behavior.
“Be cautious of ‘guilt-treating’ – the practice of giving your pet a treat because you feel guilty leaving them home alone. Instead, use treats only as a reward for good behavior. Pets (and people) need to learn to earn extra goodies,” Ward said.
4. Important Veggies
Vegetables like carrots, broccoli, green beans, celery, cucumbers, sliced apples and bananas are good alternatives to store-bought treats.
“These naturally nutritious tasty tidbits are a healthy option for many dogs. Be sure not to feed dogs a full apple or banana, as they have high sugar content, “ Ward said.
5. Exercise
Dogs, like humans, need exercise.
“For dogs, as little as 20 to 30-minutes of brisk walking is all it takes to boost immune function, improve cardiovascular health and reduce many behavioral problems. Do yourself and your dog a favor and commit to daily walks, rain or shine. The health benefits of walking extend to both ends of the leash,” Ward said.
6. Right Supplements
Ward listed two supplements to keep pets fit and trim:
a. a daily omega-3 fatty acid supplement helps prevent and treat numerous diseases, including achy joints; and
b. L-carnitine aids weight loss and promotes lean muscle mass.
“Ask your veterinarian if either (or both) of these supplements make sense for your pet’s condition and which ones are good quality,” Ward said.
7. Less carbs
Most owners give a high-carbohydrate diet to their pets, Ward noted. But a pet needs a higher protein / low carb diet first for weight loss, Wards said.
“Be sure to check with your veterinarian before making any diet changes. Pets with certain conditions, such as kidney failure, may do better on a different type of diet, “ Ward stressed.