Fat cats, pudgy pooches
Two vets weigh in on overweight pets
By Isabelle Southcott
Just like humans, pets can become obese. Sometime health problems cause the obesity; sometimes it is simply overeating. Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder of companion animals in the Western world.
Counting calories
"They can't open the fridge or cupboard and get their own food," observes Dr. Brian Barnes of Westview Veterinary Hospital, noting where the fault usually lies.
Most people do not accurately measure their pet's food, which contributes to the problem. A handful or a scoop can vary, especially if you have multiple people feeding the pet. "It's about portion control," says Barnes.
If your pet gets snacks, treats or goodies, the calories in these must be included in the overall daily calorie count.
Barnes does not recommending cutting out the treats but including them in your pet's daily plan.
Higher in urban areas
Dr. Bryce Fleming of Powell River Veterinary Hospital says obesity in pets is much higher in urban centres than rural areas.
He said obesity in pets is more prevalent in Regina, where he lived before moving to Powell River last September, than it is here.
When pets are overweight they often develop other health problems such as diabetes and arthritis.
A prediabetic condition in cats called metabolic syndrome causes the fat pad in the abdomen to secrete hormones that alter the way in which the animal perceives food. "It's jokingly called Garfield syndrome but these cats have peripheral pain. Their feet hurt, they are cranky and they want to eat constantly," says Fleming.
If you have a dog that is prone to joint problems or a breed that is prone to hip dysplasia, it is even more important that you keep him slim and trim.
Efficient exercisers
Dogs exercise more efficiently than humans do. "A dog burns half the calories that we do when they go walking with us," says Barnes. "You can't run them enough in a day to lose the weight. Diet is primary, exercise is secondary," says Barnes.
In dogs, 3,500 calories equals one pound of body fat above your basic metabolic weight. If you feed your dog an extra 100 calories per day (four small milk bones) he will gain one pound in 35 days.
Interestingly enough, studies show there is a correlation between an owner's body weight and their dog's body weight.
If your dog needs to lose weight, it is possible that you too need to shed a few pounds. If this is the case, consider doing it together!
