5 Ways to Help Your Pet Lose Weight

According to Dosomething.org, a pet that is overweight or obese has increased chances of developing arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, certain cancers, and heart and respiratory disease. Despite these facts, research shows that 1 in 3 American cats and dogs are overweight or obese. In order to put a stop to this dangerous trend, we need to help our pets lose weight so that they can live long and healthy lives. But how can we accomplish this?

Here are 5 ways to help your pet lose weight!

1. Measure Their Food Portions

Do you measure how much food you pour into your dog or cat’s bowl? If you don’t, you may want to consider doing so. Overfeeding pets is a huge contributing factor to the pet obesity problem in America. Not sure how much food to give your pet? Check the recommendations in the food bag, consult your veterinarian, or check out online calculators to help you determine the right portions! (Here’s one for dogs and one for cats to get you started.)

2. Try Supplements

Vitamins are great, for you and your pet! Trying out pet supplements may be a vital step towards helping your pet lose weight, and they can help keep your pet’s overall health balanced as well. There are many different brands and kinds of pet supplements, but be sure to consult with a veterinarian before giving any of them to your pet. If a pet already has a well-balanced diet, pet supplements may not be necessary.

3. Give Them Plenty of Exercise  

Many of us have busy and hectic schedules, so making time to play with our pets may, unfortunately, not be at the top of our to-do lists. However, it is crucial that our pets get the necessary exercise they need in order for them to stay healthy. If you are usually busy with work, you can find a pet care professional who would love to take your dog out on a walk or run on Sitting For a Cause.

4. Develop a Weight-Loss Plan with Your Vet

Your veterinarian can help you come up with a weight-loss plan that tailors to the specific physical and nutritional needs of your pet. Your vet can change the food you feed your pet, portion how much you should feed them, and can monitor your pet’s progress with weekly or monthly check-ups. Your vet can also determine if there are underlying medical reasons contributing to your pet’s weight problems, so getting a check-up regardless would be in your pet’s best interest.

5. Cut Back on Treats

Lastly, rewarding pets with treats is nice once in a while, but don’t overdo it! Rewarding good behavior with positive affirmation is the healthier alternative. A couple of treats here and there may not seem like much, but over time the caloric intake can add up, so use treats sparingly, and instead, reward good behavior with a big hug, or a long fun walk or playtime outside instead!

How do you help your pet maintain a healthy weight? Leave a comment and let us know!