Pet obesity is still on the rise. With the beginning for 2016 we can revisit weight loss for pets as many owners are starting their own weight loss journeys. Pet obesity in the United States ranges from 25 percent to more than 50 percent. A 2012 survey of the Associated for Pet Obesity Prevention found 58.3 % of cats and 52.5 % of dogs were overweight.
Obesity is a disease that can have catastrophic results for our furry friends. Obesity can lead to joint problems (osteoarthritis), liver disease, heart disease, diabetes and other chronic health conditions. Public awareness is the key to conquering the “fat gap”. According the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention 45.3 % of cat owners and 45.8% of dog owners assessed their pet as normal weight when their veterinarian assessed the pet as being overweight.
Understanding there is a problem is half the battle. In an ideal body condition score for pets the ribs, spine, and pelvic bones are not visible but are easily palpable; there is an obvious waist; there is little abdominal fat. In an overweight body assessment the ribs, spine and pelvic bones are hardly palpable; the waist is absent; there are heavy fat deposits over the spine, base of tail and chest. Overweight cats have a very obvious ventral fat pad. Once we know there is a problem we can work on the problem. Weight loss can be fun and there are several methods. If your pets are not achieving their weight loss goals please let us know.