Fit and Trim for Years to Come

We aren't the only ones who put on the holiday pounds. Humans get distracted, and often there aren't as many walks or classes, not as much playtime, and usually there are more treats around holiday celebrations and gatherings…for dogs, cats, and rabbits too.  

Keep in mind, however, obesity is just as dangerous and unhealthy for you animal family members as it is for you.  Most vets I know will tell you it is their "pet peeve," and the thing they would most like to change about the majority of the four-leggeds that come through the door.  Estimates of overweight animals run around at least 75 percent (WOW!) of the clients my vet friends see.  That is just mind-blowing.

Those extra pounds put so much strain on joints, and so many older animals are prone to arthritis, hip dysplasia pain, elbow dysplasia discomfort—why add to it?  And then there is the burden that weight puts on the heart, the liver, the kidneys…that extra weight is truly taking valuable time off your animal's life.  Cats become unable to even keep their coats in good order, unable to reach areas of their back because of the weight.  The resulting mats pull on their skin and cause pain every single time they move.

Dogs and cats should have waists.  You should be able to feel ribs, and see a slight contour over the rib cage.  Rabbits should not have double chins; it just isn't cute! 

How do you get back to a healthy weight?  Slowly.  Rapid weight loss is never a good idea, and can be particularly harmful to cats and rabbits.  Just like for people, a combination of a reduction in calories, an increase in activity (when permitted by general health), and a change in feeding habits (no more free feeding, and no more kibble, for instance, for dogs or cats) can make the difference.  

I know, I know…but Fluffy cries if I don't feed her as much, and Thunder whines if he isn't allowed to graze.  Stick it out.  Transition with as many as four small meals throughout the day, and work back to two.  Find GOOD food, with clean, safe ingredients and no filler.  Make sure what goes in is all nutrition, and is satisfying the body's needs.  If the food is empty calories, you will end up with a full animal who is still hungry.

And NEVER go by what the bag says as a daily amount to feed.  Talk to your vet, or find a specialty pet store with knowledgeable staff, and have someone provide the proper formulas to you to determine how much your animal needs.  You will need to provide your animal's weight, and general activity level.

Start the New Year out with a great resolution for better weight management.  You will benefit by having even more happy years with your companion.

-woof