Obesity in pets has become a significant problem. According to research, nearly half of all pets in the United States are fat. If you visit your neighborhood dog park, you will see several obese dogs. Many pet owners are unaware of their pet’s obesity. They believe that the best way to reward and treat their pets is to overfeed them, oblivious that excessive feeding can result in serious health difficulties and premature death of a pet.
How to counter pet obesity?
Utilize these ways to assist your pet in losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight.
Count Calories
You cannot feed your pet until you know how many calories it needs daily. Additionally, do not rely on the bag; feeding recommendations are intended for active adult dogs and cats who are not spayed or neutered. If you feed an older, spayed, or neutered indoor lap potato the recommended amount, you are probably overfeeding by 20%-30%. Consult a veterinarian at this vet clinic to determine your pet’s daily caloric requirements.
Calculate Meals
In the fight against obesity, a measuring cup is a pet parent’s best friend. Certain individuals simply fill the dish or “estimate” how many to feed. Certain pets, particularly cats, are fed an “all-day banquet” due to the “keep the dish full” feeding approach. Giving indoor cats and small dogs an additional ten kibbles of food per day can result in an annual weight gain of one pound, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). Following that, determine the amount of food your pet requires per meal.
Tactical Treating
If you’re going to spoil your dogs, make the experience worthwhile. Too many pet treats are calorie bombs high in sugar and fat, detrimental to our pets’ health. Choose low-calorie, sugar-free delights that are beneficial to your health. Always prefer a single component, such as sweet potato, salmon, or blueberry pieces, and practical treats that aid in tooth cleaning or promote movement.
Whatever you serve, keep an eye on the additional calories. Pet owners frequently overfeed their pets by providing them with tiny nibbles throughout the day. Thirty additional calories per day add up to three pounds over a year.
Exercise
Daily exercise is our biggest ally in living a pain-free life. Dog owners now have an excuse-free partner for exercise. Just 20-30 minutes of brisk walking can boost a dog’s immune system, enhance cardiovascular health, and alleviate various behavioral problems. Each day, spend 5–15 minutes playing with a laser pointer, remote-controlled toy, or paper ball. Daily walks with your dog, rain or shine, are a must. Walking is beneficial to your health in both directions which could lead to the prevention of surgical services.
Reduce Carbs
The majority of fat pets do not require a high-carbohydrate diet. However, this is what the majority of us offer our pets. Many diets contain 60% or more carbs, according to food labels. It is recommended that they consume a balanced protein-carbohydrate diet. Numerous veterinarians prescribe a high protein/low carbohydrate diet. Consult your veterinarian before making any dietary changes. Certain pets, for instance, those suffering from kidney illness, may require a particular diet or even alternative medicine for dogs.
To Conclude
Each of us must help our pets maintain a healthy weight. Just as you would never walk your dog without a collar and leash or allow them to eat nothing but pizza and ice cream, pet owners are responsible for providing nutritious diets and rewards and daily exercise. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pet’s best and healthiest yet this year.
