FAQs About Pet Obesity, the Animal Hospital, and Treatment Options
by Doris Washington
Is your pet overweight? While your pup may not compare themselves to A-list actresses and your cat may not want to look like the next super-fit "it" model, your pet needs to maintain a healthy weight. If your dog or cat is overweight, take a look at what you need to know about this medical issue and why an animal hospital could be the next step in your pet's treatment.
How Much Should Your Pet Weigh?
Before you seek treatment for pet obesity, you may need to know more about your dog or cat's expected or accepted weight. There is no one universal pound number for every dog or cat. Instead, your pet's acceptable weight is based on factors such as breed, age, sex, and overall health.
While cats may not vary in weight dramatically by breed, dogs do. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the ideal weight for a male Alaskan Malamute is 85 pounds—but the weight range for a male English Toy Spaniel is only between eight and 14 pounds.
How Do You Know If Your Pet Is Overweight?
Your pet looks larger or rounder and may feel heavier when you lift them. But you're not sure if they're at the upper end of a normal weight range, gaining too much weight, or are already considered obese.
If you're not sure whether your dog or cat needs medical help for their weight, start with the veterinarian. The vet will weigh and examine your dog or cat. During the exam, the veterinarian will feel your pet's rib area to see how much fat is present. If the vet needs to press firmly or deeply to feel the ribs, your pet is overweight. They may also recommend blood work or other diagnostic tests if they feel a medical condition is at fault for your pet's recent weight gain.
Will Your Pet Need Treatment?
The answer to this question depends on if your pet is overweight, whether they have other or underlying medical issues, and how much weight your pet needs to lose. Weight gain and obesity can lead to orthopedic problems (such as knee or hip dysfunction), diabetes, and the inability to manage daily tasks. An overweight cat may have trouble grooming itself or using the litter box, while an obese dog may find anything from going on daily walks to jumping up onto your bed at night a challenge.
What Type of Treatment Will the Animal Hospital Provide?
There isn't one universal treatment for pet obesity. The vet will take underlying health issues into account and may need to treat these problems first. Pets without pre-existing conditions may need an activity plan and diet changes to lose and maintain a healthy weight. The vet will walk you through the steps of these plans and help you to help your dog or cat.
For more information, you can visit a vet at an animal hospital such as Center-Sinai Animal Hospital.
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