Practice News

OBESITY

A problem I believe we can all relate too! Unfortunately changing lifestyles such as a new baby or longer working hours means our pets are getting less exercise. This is true of all species of animals not just dogs. As a veterinary practice we are seeing far more overweight rabbits, cats and dogs. Being overweight can cause or aggravate a lot of health problems:

• Mobility disorders (arthritis, hip dysplasia and spinal disc problems).
• Decreased exercise tolerance.
• Liver disease.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Surgical and anaesthetic risk
• Heat intolerance.
• Poor coat and skin condition.
• Lowered resistance to infectious diseases.
• Exacerbates many respiratory disorders.

A lot of people do not believe their pets are overweight. An easy guide to test their weight is to see whether you can feel their ribs and back bone by running your hands along their bodies without pressing in. They should also have a waist when looked at from above. They should not be rectangular like a coffee table!

Having an obese animal is nothing to be ashamed of, it does happen to a lot of us without noticing. When you see an animal everyday you rarely notice a weight gain. I know from personal experience as both my cat and dog have been on diets recently.

One of the classic reasons why animals become overweight is people are unaware that once their animal has been neutered that they should cut their food intake down by 20%. Their bodies are no longer doing so much so they do not need the calories. This also applies with age, as they do tend to become less active. When they do become senior, over the age of 7 (5 for giant breeds of dogs) they should be put on a senior diet, as these contain lower calories.

Our practice offers a weight clinic where we will weigh your animal and discuss the best course of action for your individual pet. There are specific diets out there just like Weight Watchers that can help your pets. We would support you throughout the weight loss by weighing routinely and giving lots of encouragement!

Weight loss is not easy but the rewards of a slim pet are enormous. We often get comments on how much more active and rejuvenated they are. It can also increase their lifespan so you can have your friend with you for longer! Remember sometimes you need to be cruel to be kind, when they are looking at you like they have not been fed in a week! Cuddles, exercise and general interaction is just as rewarding for your pets as food can be. Please call the surgery and ask a nurse for help.