Helping your pet overcome problems with obesity can be challenging. However, if your pet does not maintain a healthy weight, obesity can lead to serious medical conditions. Proper nutrition and regular exercises can help your cat or dog stay at a healthy weight and allow him or her live a longer life. At Clanton-Malphus-Hodges Vet Hospital in Thomasville, GA, we provide neutrino advice and any treatments if necessary to help improve your pet’s overall health.
Causes of Pet Obesity
Pets can often gain weight if they consume more calories than they expend. If your pet is eating a high-calorie diet but not getting the exercise he or she needs to burn off those calories, it will naturally gain weight. Some common causes of pet obesity include:
- Overfeeding – Overfeeding is a common cause of pet obesity. Overfeeding can include large portions, too many treats, and an intake of table scraps
- High-Calorie Diet – High-calorie diets are another cause of pet weight gain. As pets age, their activity level drops and a high-calorie diet will only contribute to fat. In contrast, a low-calorie, high protein diet will increase nutrition value without causing extra weight gain
- Lack of Exercise – Insufficient exercise will cause your pet to gain weight. Younger pets need plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Older pets don’t need to be as active, but should get some exercise daily to stay in shape. Swimming and walking are beneficial exercises for older pets suffering from joint problems
- Medical Conditions – Pet health problems like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s Disease, or arthritis that limit your pet’s mobility can lead to weight gain in pets. If your pet suffers from a health issue that contributes to excessive weight gain, speak with our veterinarians about preventative care measures you can take to prevent obesity
Pet Health Problems Caused by Obesity
Certain factors can contribute to obesity in cats and dogs. Some of these factors include the following:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Respiratory illnesses
- Certain types of cancer
These problems can keep your pet from living its best life and may even shorten its lifespan.
Benefits of Keeping Your Pet at a Good Weight
Keeping your pet at a healthy weight can minimize its risk of developing serious health issues. Pets that are not obese are healthier and more energetic. As a result, they enjoy more walks, runs, and playtime at the park and indoors. Implementing healthy foods into your pet’s diet can also help him or her live longer.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you need any assistance with pet obesity, our team at Clanton-Malphus-Hodges Vet Hospital in Thomasville, GA, is happy to help. To schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians, contact us at (229) 226-1914 today. We look forward to keeping your pet happy and healthy!
