Pet Weight Management

Just like us humans, many of our pets are overweight. Just like us, many of our pets eat more calories and exercise less than they should. The only difference is that we as humans are at fault, not our pets since we are the ones filling the bowls.

We can also blame the pet food manufacturers who make it very difficult to know how to feed our pets correctly. Did you know that foods labeled weight control, optimum weight, or weight loss, can have more calories than regular pet foods? If you ever have trouble sleeping; Google “Pet Food Labeling “. The regulations are so confusing that you will be asleep in no time.

I will give you some common sense recommendations for reducing your dog’s weight. Any dog will lose weight if you reduce its food low enough. The problem is, this makes the dog very hungry, which makes both you and your dog sad, and usually causes your dog to exhibit behavioral issues, such as begging, barking, or tearing up things in search of food. By feeding them low calorie, higher fiber foods, your pet can lose weight and have a satisfied “tummy”.

Despite what the label says, it’s all about the calories. To lose weight you want a dry food to contain around 3,000 Kcal/kg. ( this may also be labeled Kcal/ Cup in which case you want your dry food to be around 250 Kcal/cup). Foods with significantly higher calorie levels than these will make it difficult to control your overweight pet’s weight without making him excessively hungry. Many foods have these calorie amounts on the bag. If not, check their website or call their customer service hotline. If they won’t give you this information, I would not recommend feeding their food.

Once you know you are feeding a lower calorie food, start feeding the amount recommended on the bag for your pet’s ideal weight (not his current weight) divided into two equal feedings as close to 12 hours apart as practical. Please measure the amount fed every day; and reduce the amount fed by 10% every 2 weeks, until you pet begins to lose weight. Weigh your pet regularly, and work with you veterinarian to set goals for your pet’s weight loss.

If your pet has any existing health conditions discuss a weight loss program with your veterinarian before you begin. For best results eliminate all people food from your pet’s diet, and reduce treats to a very small amount. If your pet is physically able, take your pet for a 30 – 60 minute walk every day. This will help both of you live a happier and healthier life. Once your pet reaches its ideal weight, adjust the amount of low calorie food to maintain that weight. Your pet’s hips, joints, and internal organs will thank you, and you pet will live a longer healthier life.

For more info contact Countryside Veterinary Clinic at
www.countrysidevet-nr.com 1231 N Knowles Ave, New Richmond, WI or call them at (715)246-5606