As Pet Obesity Awareness Month begins, The Pawtable Veterinary Nurse, Kate Springham, shares expert advice on keeping pets at a healthy weight.
Pet obesity is a serious health risk that can lead to diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. It can also reduce a pet’s lifespan by up to 2.5 years. With Pet Obesity Awareness Month here, it’s a great time to take a close look at our furry friends and help them achieve a healthy weight.
Obesity isn’t just about getting bigger, other signs can include being less active than usual or panting more, struggling with exercise or refusing to play, or having matted fur from not being able to groom hard-to-reach areas (common in cats and rabbits).
Obesity can be especially dangerous for rabbits, as they may be unable to eat their cecotropes, leading to digestive issues and flystrike. Here are some simple steps to help your pet maintain a healthy weight:
• Regular weigh-ins. Monitor changes and take action if needed. You can also take “before” photos to visually track their progress.
• Monitor their diet. Keep a record of all food and treats to see how much your pet is actually eating. This also prevents other household members from double-feeding them.
• Feed for their ideal weight. Giving them the correct amount of food for their ideal weight will help them lose any extra pounds.
• Exercise pets appropriately. Make sure their activity levels are appropriate for the age, breed and overall health.
Remember that neutered pets are more prone to weight gain, so it’s important to adjust their diet and exercise accordingly. It can be difficult to make these changes on your own. I’m here to support you with a weight management programme and help you every step of the way. Let’s work together to give our pets a healthier, happier, longer life.
Kate Springham RVN
The Pawtable Veterinary Nurse
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