Is My Pet Overweight? How to Tell and What to Do About It

At Golden Valley Animal Care, we are proponents of preventive care rather than addressing health concerns after they develop. One of the ways we do that is by offering nutritional guidance and counseling to help keep our four-legged patients at a healthy weight, helping enhance their health and quality of life. The question is, how do you know if your dog or cat is overweight?

Is Your Pet Really Overweight?

It’s sometimes easy to tell that your pet is overweight. Obvious signs of pet obesity include noticeable fat pads and ribs hidden under layers of fat. An overweight dog or cat may struggle to move around, may shy away from physical activities, and may be reluctant to play. Overweight cats may also struggle to groom hard-to-reach areas, leading to an unkempt appearance.

At Golden Valley Animal Care, we use what’s known as the body condition score (BCS) to determine whether a pet is overweight, underweight, or just right. We take into account factors such as the appearance of the ribs, waist, and body shape. The BCS scale ranges from 1 to 9, with 1 being far too thin and 9 indicating extreme obesity. Ideally, a dog’s BCS should be around 4 to 5, while a cat’s should be around 5.

What Are the Impacts of Pet Obesity?

Cat and dog obesity continues to be on the rise, posing serious risks to household pets. It usually results from sedentary lifestyles, eating unhealthy foods or table scraps, overfeeding, and too many treats. Age, breed, neuter status, medications, and certain health conditions can also play a role. Like humans, being overweight can elevate the risk of health concerns, including diabetes, heart disease, and kidney problems. Being overweight can put undue strain on the joints, leading to discomfort and loss of mobility.

Excess weight can also make it harder for your pet to breathe comfortably, tolerate exercise, regulate body temperature, and stay active as they age. Over time, obesity can reduce your pet’s quality of life and may contribute to a shorter lifespan, which is why maintaining a healthy weight is such an important part of preventive veterinary care.

What Can You Do to Help Combat Pet Obesity at Home?

The following are some tips to enhance your pet’s health and quality of life:

• Measure Those Meals: It’s easy to overfill the food bowl without realizing it. Use a measuring cup and stick to the portions your veterinary team recommends.
• Go Easy on the Treats: Treats are fun, but the calories can add up quickly. Keep portions small and consider healthier options like pet-safe vegetables or low-calorie treats.
• Skip the Table Scraps: Those puppy-dog eyes can be impossible to resist, but human food can be high in fat and calories and can be harmful for your furry friend. Show your love with playtime, cuddles, or a favorite toy instead.
• Make Exercise Fun: Daily walks, games of fetch, laser pointers, climbing towers, and interactive toys can help your pet burn calories while having a great time.
• Keep an Eye on the Scale: Small weight changes can be easy to miss when you see your pet every day. Regular weigh-ins can help you catch weight gain early and keep your pet on track.

Nutrition Guidance and Weight Management Near Me in El Paso, TX

Maintaining a healthy weight is key to enhancing your pet’s health and quality of life. Our dedicated team at Golden Valley Animal Care is happy to work alongside you to create a custom nutritional guidance and weight management plan to promote a long, healthy, and vibrant life. We invite you to call us at 915-262-0053 to schedule your furry friend’s appointment or request one online today!