Current research by the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) is not encouraging. Obesity in pets is not dropping. Let’s chew the fat shall we? Current surveys find that 53% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight or obese. Not good. We could be killing our friends with caloric kindness.
Obesity in pets is linked to cancer, joint damage, heart disease, liver disease and diabetes. Some of these issues, including diabetes, can be reversible with weight loss through good quality nutrition and exercise.
Rule of thumb. Look for a tapering behind your pet’s ribs (narrower not wider!) when viewed from above. When in doubt, have your pet’s weight checked frequently at your veterinarian’s office and get professional advice as to how many pounds to shed and a weight loss plan. Your pet will thank you for it. (Well, maybe not at dinner time.) Bon Appetit.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Hudson Veterinary Hospital, 330-650-2929.
Dr. Bob