What causes obesity in pets?

When an animal consumes more calories in a 24-hour period than its body requires, the excess calories are converted to fat.  Overtime these extra daily calories can add up to pounds and pounds of body fat.  Every animal’s daily calorie requirement is different and is influenced by the following factors:

• Physical activity
• Age
• Genetics

Unintentional overfeeding is probably the largest cause of obesity.  Leaving food out for your pet to graze throughout the day, feeding table scraps or giving excessive treats are all recipes for overeating.  Couple this overeating with a lazy lifestyle, and the combination spells obesity.

There are also numerous diseases that can predispose your pet to weight gain.  A partial list includes hypothyroidism, adrenal disease (Cushing’s Disease), and any condition that causes loss of mobility without loss of appetite (i.e. prolonged convalescence).  Overweight animals should be evaluated to rule out the presence of an underlying disease.

Some medications can stimulate your pet’s appetite and/or alter your pet’s metabolic rate.  It is important to discuss all of your pet’s medications and supplements with your veterinarian at each visit.

How do I know whether or not my pet is overweight?

Your veterinarian will gladly evaluate your pet’s weight and body condition during his or her next physical exam.  While there is no “magic number” for each breed to weigh, we can certainly provide you with guidelines.  Weighing your pet at every visit allows your veterinarian to keep track of your pet’s weight status.

To take a quick check of your pet’s “physique” run your hands gently along their ribcage.  You should be able to easily feel your pet’s ribs.  If you can’t, your pet could probably lose a few pounds.  When looking down at your pet, your pet should resemble an hourglass with a well-defined waist, not a rectangle.

So my pet is overweight, do I really need to be concerned?

Obesity is a large risk factor for the development of other diseases and disorders.  Obesity increases an animal’s risk of metabolic diseases such as diabetes and hepatic lipidosis (liver disease).

Obesity also increases the workload on the heart, which can intensify cardiovascular problems.  Overweight pets often have shortness of breath and may be easily fatigued by only moderate activity.  The accumulation of excess body fat can place pressure on airways causing coughing and labored breathing.

Unnecessary weight adds stress to joints and can worsen existing musculoskeletal problems making arthritis more painful and difficult to manage.  As a result, the obese pet tends to become even less active, perpetuating their obesity.

Finally, excessive body fat alters the way medications work in the body and makes anesthesia more risky.

How can obesity be prevented?

As with any health concern, prevention is our goal and should start when your pet is a puppy or kitten.  Feeding a balanced food designed for animals in the proper proportions is crucial.   Unless otherwise instructed, your pet should be fed measured meals instead of free choice (where dry kibble is always available).  Most commercial pet foods will include feeding guidelines on their label.  These guidelines assume that the commercial food is the only source of your pet’s calories.  Treats are extra calories that need to be factored into your pet’s total daily intake.  “People food” can be good or bad depending on what it is (baby carrots vs. milkshakes!)  To avoid turning your pet into a beggar or finicky eater, we recommend avoiding “people food” in the first place.

Regular exercise or playtime is the second critical element in preventing obesity.  Bored indoor cats with continuous access to food tend to overeat.  Some dogs will eat whether or not they are actually experiencing hunger.  Providing regular activity and stimulation is essential for optimal health.

Regular physical examinations will allow your veterinarian to determine if your pet is becoming overweight.  At each visit, be prepared to tell your veterinarian what food your pet is eating (including anything from the table).

How can I get my overweight pet to lose weight?

Weight loss in pets usually requires both a reduction in caloric intake and an increase in physical activity.  Sounds easy, right?  In reality, establishing and maintaining an effective weight loss program for your pet can be quite challenging.  Please do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian for advice and strategies.  We can help you determine the proper reductions in your pet’s food, make suggestions regarding healthier “treats” and share creative ideas to increase your pet’s daily exercise.  Occasionally we may even prescribe a special pet food designed specifically for weight loss.

Remember, when your pet has a health problem and is overweight, it can become difficult for your veterinarian to accurately diagnose and treat diseases.  Obesity adds much risk to the use of medications and anesthesia.  Keeping your pet fit and trim will prolong and add quality to their life!