Overweight pets in the U.S has become the new norm. In 2018, an estimated 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the United States were overweight or obese.
For every one extra pound your dog is overweight = four extra pounds of pressure on each leg joint
- Having a pet that is overweight can lead to serious health issues for these animals including diabetes, arthritis, decreased life expectancy, high blood pressure and cancer. Not only will this be very uncomfortable for your pet but these conditions can become very costly.
- Pet food companies often recommend higher feeding amounts than is necessary
- Many pet foods are way too high in carbs which are often used as cheap fillers
- While it is often hard not to give into those eyes begging for food, every treat can be like feeding a cookie to your pet.
- Due to our busy schedules many pets do not receive adequate exercise for their food intake
- Pet weight is harder to lose: one pound lost in a canine is the equivalent to five human pounds – that means that each pound lost will be gradual and significant.
- While dogs are OK to lose weight relatively quickly, cats should not lose weight quickly. For help with weight loss for your pet, you may want to consult a veterinarian.
Sources:
ww.nationaltoday.com/national-pet-obesity-day/
The Royal Treatment by Dr. Barbara Royal
petobesityprevention.org