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Obesity is not just a problem in people; pets are
packing on the kilos too! A recent report from the American National
Academy of Science shows that one in four pets is overweight or
obese. This problem can no longer be ignored!
How much does a fat pet weigh?
 "Putting your pet on the scale is not the best way to evaluate if
the pet is overweight," explains Dr. Christine Merle, a small animal
Extension veterinarian at the University of Illinois College of
Veterinary Medicine in the US. "There is a tremendous amount of
individual variation in an animal's ideal weight. It is better to
look at the appearance of each animal rather than at a weight that
this breed or type of animal 'should' be. Looking at the animal's
body condition is the best way to judge where your pet falls on the
obesity spectrum."
Body condition scores are most commonly rated on a 5- or 9- point
scale, with the middle of the scale designated ideal. The pet is
scored by looking at its build, the amount of fat overlying its
ribs, and its "waist." Breed, age, sex, and type of lifestyle are
minor factors noted.
You should be able to feel your pet's ribs easily without pressing,
but you should not be able to see the ribs through the coat. There
should be a "tuck in" in the abdominal area. Your pet's torso,
viewed from above, should resemble an hourglass. You can conduct
these quick checks, but since it's hard for owners to be objective,
it's best to seek your veterinarian's advice.
"Since more pets are overweight, we have become accustomed to seeing
pets who weigh more than is ideal. The norm now seems to be several
kilos overweight. Often if a pet is lean, owners think the pet is
starving. However, studies show that lean pets have fewer health
problems and an increased life span of up to 2 years!" states Dr.
Merle.
 An overweight pet is not a healthy pet. Owners need to recognize
that they are putting their pet's health at risk by allowing that
extra weight. Obesity commonly leads to diabetes, heart problems,
and arthritis. An overweight pet does not age well, either.
Overweight pets are more prone to hip dysplasia, back and joint
pain, and endocrine diseases. Extra weight also decreases a
veterinarian's ability to manage these conditions both medically and
surgically. Keeping Fluffy at a healthy weight can literally add
years to her life.
Why are more pets overweight? The answer is the same for pets as
well as people: too many calories and not enough exercise. "The most
common reason for overfeeding is that owners want to show their pet
they care and one way is to give a treat. One extra treat can turn
into 5 and then 10. Be aware exactly how much you are feeding your
pets," advises Dr. Merle.
It can be a challenge deciding how much is the right amount to feed
your pet. What's listed on the bag is for the average pet, but
lifestyle, activity level, and age also affect how much food a pet
needs. If your pet is overweight, feed less than what the bag says
and adjust from there. Remember that treats reduce the amount of
food required at each meal.
If given the chance most animals will eat more than they need. Talk
to your veterinarian to figure out the ideal weight for your pet,
then monitor your pet's weight with weekly or monthly "rib checks"
or weigh ins. Never start your pet on a diet without consulting your
veterinarian.
"Prevention is really the key. It is very hard to get pets to lose
weight, especially if it is an arthritic pet that cannot exercise.
Keeping animals at a steady weight is a much easier task. If you are
faced with an obese pet, first rule out medical reasons for being
overweight. Then simply decrease calories in the diet and increase
exercise. An extra motivation is that people who lose weight
together with their pet are more likely to keep it off," notes Dr.
Merle.
Be careful about reducing food consumption rather
than calories. Pets who do not get their "fill" at mealtimes may
tend to scavenge more. Choose calorie-controlled foods such as
Science Diet Light for dogs
or Science Diet Light for
cats.
Working with a veterinarian is the best way to formulate a healthy
diet for you pet, determine your pet's ideal weight, and create a
weight loss plan. Contact your local veterinarian if your pet is
overweight.
Source:
Office of
Public Engagement
2001 S. Lincoln Ave.
Urbana, Illinois 61802 USA
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