Did you know that more than 50% of our canine and feline pals are overweight or obese? Fluffy and Fido look pretty cute if they’re a bit pudgy, so many people don’t think this is a major issue. We also understand how easy it is to want to spoil your furry friend with tasty tidbits. However, those extra pounds come with a high cost. Continue reading to learn more about pet obesity from a local Greeley, CO veterinarian.

Which Dogs Are Most Prone To Obesity?

It’s safe to assume that all of our furry companions enjoy food and treats. Fido will not turn his nose up at a slice of bacon, and he will gladly take one for the team and volunteer for cleanup duty if you drop a burger on the floor. Fluffy can also be quite meowpulative when it comes to food. While at the end of the day, your pet’s calorie consumption and activity levels will determine their weight, breed definitely factors in.

Some breeds are more prone to it than others. Some dogs that tend to get a bit pudgy include the Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Rottweiler, Border Terrier, Boxer, German Shepherd, Scotch Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Pug, Beagle, Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund, Basset Hound, Chihuahua, Newfoundland, Shih Tzu, Bichon frisé, Border Collie, Saint Bernard, and West Highland White Terrier. 

Of course, we can’t forget about Fluffy! Chubby kitties include the Ragdoll, Birman, Sphynx, Maine Coon, British Shorthair, American Shorthair, Exotic Shorthair, and Norwegian Forest Cat.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Obese?

In some circumstances, it’s rather simple to determine whether Fido is overweight. If your dog resembles a potato with ears, legs, and a tail, he may be a chonker! Obesity in fluffy or otherwise heavy-set dogs, however, is more difficult to detect.

Here are a few tips: 

• A pet is considered overweight if it weighs more than 10% of its ideal body weight, and obese if it is more than 20% overweight.
• Body weight score charts can be a useful indicator. You can find them online.
• The rib test can tell you whether your furry buddy is too big, too little, or just right. Try feeling your pet’s ribs. If you can feel them behind a thin layer of muscle and fat, your four-legged pet is probably in good shape. If you can’t feel them at all, your pet is certainly obese.

Of course, your veterinarian will be the final authority.

What Are The Health Risks Associated With Obesity?

Extra weight can cause a range of health issues in pets, just as it does in humans. While it is simple to make fun of fat pets, these medical conditions are far from entertaining.

Here are some of the main concerns:

• Skin Issues
• Respiratory Problems
• Heat Intolerance
• Osteoarthritis
• Heart Disease
• Reproductive Issues
• Diabetes
• Liver Problems
• Kidney Issues
• Impaired Immune Function
• Kidney Dysfunction
• Metabolic Problems
• Endocrine Issues
• Pancreatitis
• Decreased Life Expectancy

Ask your Greeley, CO vet for more information about the risks associated with obesity.

To make matters worse, obesity frequently results in downward spirals. Pets become less active as they gain weight. Then, they continue to gain as their physical activity level decreases. A proper pet ‘workout’ regime is also important. 

Consult your Greeley, CO veterinarian for detailed information on your pet’s activity needs.

What Can I Do to Help My Pet Lose Weight?

You’re ultimately the one in charge here: Fido and Fluffy cannot exactly grab themselves a snack from the fridge or order delivery. They can, however, overwhelm you with solemn expressions and other strategies. You may need to prepare yourself for your pet’s charming ‘Please feed me‘ face, especially if they are becoming a butterball!

• Portion management is essential here. Even feeding your pet a few additional calories each day might cause weight gain.
• Proper activity is also crucial. Walks and playtime are generally the norm, but ask your vet for more information. It’s important to stick to things that are appropriate for your furry friend. 
• Limit how many treats you give your animal pet. It’s fine to feed Fluffy and Fido snacks, but keep treats to about 5% of your pet’s daily caloric consumption. 

Follow your Greeley, CO veterinarian’s instructions regarding your pet’s nutrition and care needs. Also, remember that pets must reduce weight gradually in order to do so safely. Never put a pet on a crash diet. This can be very dangerous, as it can be bad for their metabolism.

Book An Appointment At Our Greeley, CO Animal Clinic

Have any queries about your pet’s diet or care? Please contact us, your Greeley, CO veterinary hospital. We are here to help!