Obesity in pets is becoming a concerning issue for pet owners. Even as human beings, we take care of ourselves to remain fit and healthy, which is why it’s also important to pay proper attention to your pet’s health as well. Obesity and unhealthy weight can have a number of effectson your pet’s health. Arthritis, diabetes and respiratory problems are the most common issues that obesity can cause. As a pet owner, having a healthy pet should be a priority. It’s important to carry a diagnosis of your pet every now and then to determine the weight isn’t unhealthy.
How to tell if your pet is overweight?
The best way to judge and assess your pet is by simply running your hands through the abdomen area. If you’re able to feel the ribs without any thick layers covering it up, then that means your pet’s weight is ideal. It’s fine. But if you’re able to feel the ribs and see them as well, then that means they’re quite skinny. If you’re unable to find the ribs while placing your hands on its chest, and also unable to see them, then that means your pet is overweight. This is known as the rib test. This test proves whether your pet needs a diet change, exercise routine and special attention.
The next thing you will be able to notice is the chest. The shape of his body should be wider at the chest and the abdomen area should be narrower. The tuck-up from his chest to the stomach should be prominent and noticeable. An overweight pet will have the body shape of a tube. A straight figure is trouble. You wouldn’t be able to distinguish between the waist and chest. That would indicate your pet is overweight. An hourglass figure is an indication of a healthy pet.
Physical activities are a great way to prove unhealthy weight gain. If your pet isn’t as active as it was before, doesn’t run as fast as it once did while running or fetching, gets tired easily while chasing anything, prefers lazing around on the couch and loves sleeping now more than ever, then chances are your pet has become lethargic and lazy. Exercising has become difficult and the extra weight tends to tire it out quicker than usual. The extra weight it has to carry can affect his physical fitness greatly. Looking active and being active are 2 different things. If your pet has no stamina to carry our regular activities like it used to once, then it’s important to start paying proper attention to its diet and exercise routine strictly.
What to do about it?
As a pet owner, you can always help your pet get right back on track by making a few lifestyle changes for them.
Exercising is key. Physical exercise improves mental and physical health. Keeping a strict exercise routine for your pet to follow can help it to lose those extra pounds and also help it become a happier and healthier pet.
An overweight pet means its eating more than it’s supposed too. its one of the major reasons why it has become obese. Nutrition intake is super important. Which is why it’s important to schedule how many times a day it can eat.Next, you can control what it eats and how much it eats. Portion control is very important when you’re trying to lose weight. The same goes for animals aswell. Choosing healthy foods that fill up your pet’s stomach in a healthy manner is crucial. Maintaining portion sizes in each meal is important.
Get your pet checked regularly.Be consistent with the activities to progress positively. Helping your pet reach a healthy weight can be really motivating and also help you both live a happy and carefree life.
