Pets get fat for the same reasons people do: overeating and lack of exercise.
More and more, veterinarians and human doctors are watching their patients stroll in looking heavier than on previous visits. Unfortunately, overweight can cause the same problems in pets as it does in humans. Obese pets can experience a host of problems such as diabetes, breathing and heart problems, and joint, tendon and ligament problems. Overweight cats may not be able to groom themselves properly, causing skin problems. In short, fat pets tend to lead short, uncomfortable lives, just as fat people do.
How do you know if your pet's overweight?
If your pet looks pregnant (and you know this isn't the case), he's fat. When you rub your hands over your pets ribs, the skin should move easily back and forth and you should be able to feel the ribs. If not, your pet is probably overweight. Luckily, it's a lot easier to slim down your pets than it is to slim down yourself! After all, pets aren't concerned with will power--what and when they eat is fully dependent on the whims of their owner. Furthermore, pets don't cringe at the idea of exercise. To them, it's all fun and games! Dogs are always up for a walk or a game of fetch. Cats, on the other hand, can be engaged with toys they can chase (a little cat nip may boost activity, too). The bottom line is this: pets love to move, especially if you're moving with them.
Diet & Exercise
Don't put your pet on a crash diet. This is especially dangerous for cats, who can develop fatal liver problems if food portions are reduced too quickly. Talk to your vet about special diet food and portion control. Gradually reducing portions and incorporating exercise is the best way to tailor your pet's weight loss regimen. Try to keep treats to a minimum. Instead, reward them with a walk or some playtime. If you want to give your dog treats occasionally, substitute biscuits with a piece of carrot or a mini rice cake. These things are just as tasty to them and won't pack on the calories. Try to make time at least three days a week to have a brisk walk with your dog or some playtime with your cat. Once you carve out times that work for you, your pet will fall into a routine. Renowned veterinarian Dr. Jane Bick believes that dogs and cats could and should have lifespans of 30-35 years. Achieving this kind of longevity, of course, means a lifetime of excellent care and nutrition.
