Obesity is the most common disease and dogs and cats, not just in the UK but throughout the world millions of pets affected. Up to 44% of our pets are obese so we need to start accepting that this is a problem and get it treated.
Obesity has been linked to an increase risk of arthritis, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, heart disease, respiratory distress, cancer and early mortality in cats and dogs. The risk for the development of diabetes increases eight times in a obese cats! All of these diseases can be extremely disabling and cause a lot of unnecessary suffering.
The solution is easy, control the calories, increase exercise and ignore those eyes! As a result your pet will be healthier, fitter and more fun.
For dogs and cats there are a few simple checks you can do which, if carried out regularly, can help you to prevent your pet from becoming obese
•You should be able to see* and feel the outline of your pets ribs without excess fat covering
•You should be out to see* and feel your pets waist and it should be clearly visible when viewed from above
•Your pets belly should be tucked up when viewed from the side
*it may not be possible to see through thick coats but you should be able to feel the outline.
If your pet does not pass all three checks above, or if you're in any doubt of your pets weight and need help with setting your pet a weight-loss plan you can stick to then please get in touch