Weighing in On Pet Obesity

[Dot]

Is Tabby looking a little tubby? Rover on the rotund side?

As Easter indulgences might have you thinking of a health kick, why not take the time to consider your pet’s waistlines too
In Australia, recent studies have shown that over 60% of domestic pets are considered to be
overweight or obese. This current situation dangerously mimics the typical “western” diet and lifestyle of too much processed food and not enough physical exercise. Conditions such as pancreatitis, early onset arthritis, diabetes and cardiovascular disease are all associated with obesity.

Simple things like feeding your pet just once a day, in the morning, and using a healthy natural diet with plenty of fresh meat and bones, can go a long way to improving you pet’s overall health and longevity.


Fat Facts

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Dogs are more likely to encounter weight control problems than cats.

Animals at greater risk are female, neutered, older, poorly exercised, animals with obese owners, "only" pets (i.e. single pet households).

The overweight pet has a shorter life span and poorer quality of life, compromising its welfare.

Obesity is the product of a positive energy balance where caloric intake exceeds output, leading to adiposity. Only 5% of cases are treatable medically. 95% of cases must be treated through control of caloric intake.
(Source: Australian Veterinary Association)


Weight Loss Tips

1. Feed your pet once a day, in the morning so they can exercise and work off the weight.

2. Avoid treats and sharing ‘people food’ with your pet.

3. A natural diet of fresh meat, free of anything artificial ensures your dog or cat feels more “full” and is low in calories.

4. Kangaroo meat is great for weight loss due to its low fat and high protein content.

5. Exercise more. Your local vet can advise you on an appropriate amount for your pet.


Dog Treats- The Human Equivalent

The most common cause of an overweight or obese pet is overfeeding. Skipping the treats is an effective way to help your furry friend shed those unnecessary kilos.

For a 4.5kg, 1 dog biscuit = 2 glazed donuts

For a 9kg dog, 1 chew treat= 1 hot fudge sundae

For an 18kg dog, 1 pig’s ear= 6 x 375ml cans of cola

Weight Loss Tips

1. Feed your pet once a day, in the morning so they can exercise and work off the weight.

2. Avoid treats and sharing ‘people food’ with your pet.

3. A natural diet of fresh meat, free of anything artificial ensures your dog or cat feels more “full” and is low in calories.

4. Kangaroo meat is great for weight loss due to its low fat and high protein content.

5. Exercise more. Your local vet can advise you on an appropriate amount for your pet.

[Greynomad]

Dot,
I think your advice could go equally for pet and owner!
I'm with you on this...
None of our hounds have been overweight.
Simple rules: simple to follow!