Just like humans, if a pet doesn’t have a healthy lifestyle, it may become overweight. An animal is considered obese when it has an excess level of body fat. Contrary to what some may believe, your pet having a few extra pounds has a great health impact and may make their life less enjoyable. It can impact a pet’s ability to live their day-to-day life, causing suffering and, in extreme cases, disability.
Health Problems Associated with Obesity
Obesity can not only perpetuate existing health problems, but it can also be the cause of new ones. This will impact your pet’s quality of life and potentially shorten their lifespan. Obesity is a contributor to the following:
- Heart disease
- Respiratory distress
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
Risk Factors of Obesity
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of your pet becoming obese. For dogs, these include:
- Age – This increases over time
- Sex – Obesity is more common in females
- Breed – Higher risks are present for certain breeds
Checks To See If Your Cat Is Overweight
Here is how to check if your cat is obese:
- Examine your cat’s spine, ribs and hip bones. These should be visible and prominent to the touch
- Your cat’s belly should not sag – there should only be a little body fat
- When viewed top-down, your cat’s waist should be clearly defined
If your cat fails these checks, contact your vet. They will offer a detailed health checkup and tailored advice to aid your cat with a weight-loss programme.
Checks To See If Your Dog Is Overweight
If you want to check if your dog is obese, just follow these simple steps:
- Examine your dog’s waist. It should be clearly defined, especially when viewed top-down.
- Examine your dog’s ribs. They should not be covered with excess fat, and you should be able to feel them clearly.
- When viewed from the side, your dog’s belly should be tucked up
If you are concerned about your dog’s health, consult with a vet like Vets at Geelong. We offer detailed health checks and weight reduction advice if necessary.
Preventing Pet Obesity
Just as in humans, keeping your pets trim and lightweight is all about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Both overeating and a lack of exercise can cause obesity. To tackle this, a controlled diet of tailored pet food and no ‘human food’ is best. Healthy amounts of moderate exercise are also required.
Do You Have an Overweight Pet in Geelong?
If you are looking for tailored advice to help your overweight pet, Vets of Geelong can help. We offer comprehensive veterinary services, ensuring the health of pets through routine consultations, advanced diagnostic procedures, surgeries, and preventive care. We prioritise compassionate care, offering personalised treatment plans tailored to each pet’s unique needs.
