In recent months, there has been a growing awareness about the problem of obesity in modern society. Veterinary organisations and suppliers are beginning to speak out in order to educate consumers about this issue. Obesity represents a significant health risk in our family pets, and may contribute to development of other health problems. Problems that have been linked to obesity include diabetes, degenerative joint disease, heart disease, etc.
There are many factors that may contribute to a pet becoming obese, but as a whole, it is the result of consuming more calories than are required for day-to-day activity levels. In other words, if the pet eats more food and treats than it needs, it will gain weight. For small dogs and cats, as little as one tablespoon of additional food per day can result in a significant weight gain over a year. It should be realized that a weight gain of ½ kilogram in a 4.5 kilogram pet represents a 10% increase in weight. This would be equivalent to a 5 kilogram weight gain in a 50 kilogram human!
Commercial diets that are formulated to be ‘weight control’ aid in controlling or maintaining the weight of most animals, but are rarely appropriate for weight loss programs. Weight loss or reducing diets are usually very restrictive in calories, and must be properly balanced to provide appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals while encouraging weight loss. For this reason, most commercial diets that promote significant weight loss are only available through a veterinarian, and should only be used under veterinary supervision.
Weight management in pets can be challenging, especially with the busy lifestyle of most modern families. In order to promote weight loss, it is not enough to just limit the pet’s caloric intake, although there is no question that this is the most important component of any program. It is also necessary to increase the level of activity, or the pet’s ‘fitness’, both to increase the pet’s metabolic rate and to burn up calories. For the typical indoor cat, who spends much of the day sleeping or lounging around, this can call for some creative solutions!
If you are concerned at all about your pet’s weight, contact the Cleveland Veterinary Clinic and we will be happy to work with you to develop a customised program for your furry friend. An individualised program is a must, since age, breed, activity level, and health status all must be taken into consideration.
Source: Doncaster Animal Clinic,99 Henderson Avenue,Thornhill, Ontario