Obesity In Pets
Obesity in pets is a condition where they have an excessive amount of body fat. It occurs when a pet consumes more calories than what they burn.
What is Obesity
When an animal consumes more calories than it burns, overtime this leads to weight gain. Obesity can affect all pets and can increase the risk of several health issues. Some of these include joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and a decreased lifespan. Obesity is one of the most common health concerns among pets, but it is preventable and manageable with proper diet and exercise.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we provide expert and emergency treatment to help your pet.
Signs Your Pet May be Obese
You can often tell if your pet is obese by looking for the following signs:
🐾 Visible excess body fat – Your pet may have an overall rounder appearance or a noticeable "bulging" of the abdomen
🐾 Difficulty breathing or excessive panting – Overweight pets may tire more quickly and have trouble catching their breath after moderate exercise
🐾 Reluctance to move – Obese pets may show less interest in playing, walking, or engaging in physical activity
🐾 Lack of a visible waistline – When viewed from above, an obese pet will not have the usual hourglass shape
🐾 Difficulty grooming – Cats may struggle with grooming themselves due to excess fat around their body, which can lead to matting or poor coat condition
🐾 Reduced energy levels – Obese pets often seem lethargic and may not be as active as they used to be
🐾 Joint issues – Overweight pets may exhibit signs of joint pain or stiffness due to the excess pressure on their joints
🐾 Increased food intake – A pet that is overweight may constantly beg for food, despite already eating their meals
What Causes Obesity in Pets?
Obesity can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
🐾 Overfeeding – Consuming more food than is necessary for their size, energy needs, or activity level
🐾 Lack of exercise – A sedentary lifestyle, such as not getting enough walks, playtime, or stimulation, can lead to weight gain
🐾 High-calorie foods – Pet foods high in fat and carbohydrates or giving too many treats can contribute to excess weight
🐾 Breed predisposition – Some breeds, such as Pugs, Labradors and Dachshunds, are more prone to obesity due to their genetic makeup
🐾 Health conditions – Certain conditions, like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, can cause weight gain or make it harder for a pet to lose weight
🐾 Age – As pets get older, their metabolism slows down, and they may become less active, which can contribute to weight gain
🐾 Sterilising/desexing – While spaying or neutering is important for many reasons, it can slightly reduce a pet's metabolism, potentially leading to weight gain if their diet and exercise are not adjusted
🐾 Unbalanced diet – An inappropriate or poorly balanced diet can contribute to weight gain, especially when feeding inappropriate human food or not adjusting portion sizes
When to See a Vet
If you suspect that your pet is obese, it’s important to consult your veterinarian for an accurate assessment. A vet can evaluate your pet’s body condition score (BCS) and determine whether obesity is an issue. You should see your vet if:
✔ Your pet’s weight seems to be increasing, and you are unsure of how to address it
✔ You notice any signs of discomfort, such as difficulty walking or breathing
✔ Your pet seems to be suffering from joint issues, lethargy, or a decreased quality of life
✔ You have tried adjusting your pet's diet and activity level without success
Professional Obesity Treatment at My Corner Vet
At My Corner Vet, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing obesity in pets, which includes:
Weight loss plans
We will work with you to create a personalised diet and exercise plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Nutritional counseling
Our team can provide guidance on portion control, selecting appropriate food, and reducing unhealthy treats
Medication or supplements
If obesity is related to an underlying health issue like hypothyroidism, we may provide medications or recommend supplements to support healthy weight loss
Check-ups and weigh ins
This will help to monitor your pet’s weight loss progress and adjust their plan as needed.
Blood tests
We may recommend blood tests to help identify any medical conditions that could be hindering your pet's ability to lose weight.
How to Prevent Obesity
Prevention is always better than treatment. To help prevent obesity in your pet:
🐾 Follow portion control – Measure your pet’s food and follow the guidelines provided on their food packaging or as recommended by your vet
🐾 Provide a balanced diet – Choose a nutritionally complete pet food and avoid overfeeding, especially high-calorie treats
🐾 Increase physical activity – Ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise, including daily walks, playtime, and other activities to keep them engaged
🐾 Limit high-calorie treats – Treats should be given in moderation and should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake
🐾 Monitor their weight regularly – Keep track of your pet’s weight and overall health by visiting your vet regularly for check-ups and weigh-ins
🐾 Avoid free feeding – Do not leave food out all day, as it encourages overeating. Instead, feed your pet at set times each day
If your pet experiences early signs of obesity, call our vets for to discuss treatment and prevention plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
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A good rule of thumb is to look for a visible waistline when viewed from above. You should also be able to feel your pet’s ribs easily without excess fat covering them. If you’re unsure, your vet can assess your pet’s body condition score.
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Yes, obesity can lead to a variety of health problems in pets, including joint issues, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
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Yes, most pets can lose weight with a combination of a controlled, balanced diet and increased exercise. Your vet can help create a weight loss plan that suits your pet’s needs.
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Weight loss food can be helpful, but it should be chosen carefully. Some weight loss diets are nutritionally balanced and appropriate, while others may not provide all the nutrients your pet needs. Consult your vet before switching your pet’s food.
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Weight loss can take time and depends on how much weight your pet needs to lose, their age, breed, and metabolism. Your Veterinarian can help construct a personalised weight loss plan for your pet. Consistent progress is key to long-term success.
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If your pet has signs of obesity, call your local vet today!
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