Is Your Pet Obese, by Professional Pet Sitting Etc

Is your pet obese?

Problems With The

Growing

Obesity Epidemic

Facing Our Pets

Author, Amber Kingsley for Professional Pet Sitting Etc

In a previous post, we discussed the problem of increased occurrences of lyme disease in dogs, but there’s an even bigger threat on the horizon – the growing prevalence of obesity in our companion pets. According to recent figures released by the APOP (Association for Pet Obesity Prevention), around 53% of dogs and a whopping 58% of cats are considered overweight or obese in the United States.

Familiarity Breeds Contempt

Since we spend everyday with our animals, sometimes we don’t notice that they’re gaining weight since it usually happens slowly over time. While you’re vet would tell you your pet is too pudgy, you can watch for signs your dog is packing on too many pounds or your cat is getting chunky:

● A waddling type of gait where they sway from side-to-side

● Lethargy and an overall intolerance for activity and exercise

● Difficulty breathing often with wheezing and other breath sounds

Depending on their particular breed, like a Shar Pie for example, you should be able to feel their ribs, not so much that they’re emaciated, but they shouldn’t be concealed from your touch.

Exercise & Activity

Just like their human counterparts, the only way to truly overcome a weight problem is through diet and exercise. Obviously you should consult with your veterinarian before starting a new diet or exercise regime for your animal, but here’s some other important tips to remember:

● Stop feeding them table scraps or other types of “people food.”

● Limit their food intake and don’t leave an “open buffet” of kibble laying around.

● Cut down on treats, depending on their size, one or two a day is sufficient.

● Stick to an exercise schedule.

While many people will walk their dog daily, some cat owners forget that their felines also need to remain active. While walking them on a lead may not be an option, you can still exercise them in other ways to increase their activity levels. Anything from a high-tech laser pointer they’ll chase around the house to leaving some bags and boxes around for their enjoyment. Be creative when it comes to getting your cat off the couch.

Health Problems

Also identical to their two-legged owners, animals are at an increased risk for developing a number of different health problems. The most common conditions seen in dogs are:

1. Arthritis

2. Bladder or urinary tract diseases

3. Thyroid problems

4. Liver disease

5. Knee problems

6. Diabetes

7. Degenerative disc disorders

8. Fatty growths

9. Kidney disease

10. Heart failure

When it comes to cats who become obese or overweight, they are commonly seen developing:

1. Bladder or urinary tract diseases

2. Chronic kidney disease

3. Diabetes

4. Liver disease

5. Asthma

6. Arthritis

7. High blood pressure (or hypertension)

8. Heart failure

9. Gallbladder disorders

10. Spine immobility

Overfeeding our animals is the leading cause of them becoming overweight or obese. By pampering them with too many treats and not ensuring they’re active and exercised properly, we’re literally killing them with kindness.

Before giving them that extra treat in a moment of wanting to see some instant gratification, think about their long term health instead. Feeding them less today will ensure they’ll see more tomorrows with us in the future.

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Dorinne Whynott, is a long time animal professional. She is a successful business owner establishing one of the largest pet sitting companies in New Hampshire since 1990. Click to Read her complete History.

Professional Pet Sitting Etc. is a leading business in the pet care field and continues to grow since 1990. It is an AWARD WINNING business, having been awarded the 2015 Best Pet Sitting , 2015 Best Dog Walker, Business of the Year Awards in 1996, 1997, 2006 and 2010. It boasts 30+ amazing pet sitters on staff, over 3000 clients in 38 cities from Nashua to Concord, NH. Hundreds of satisfied client testimonials can be found on their website and more 5 star reviews on their Facebook page, Google+ page and more. They have sustained an A+ rating with the BBB, A rating with Angie’s List and are unmatched in the Pet Sitting Industry in New Hampshire.

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