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The consequences of obesity are well known in today’s society. Conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and others are closely linked to excessive weight. While the epidemic in humans is widely publicized, obesity in our pets poses a major health problem as well.
According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc, as many as 60 million dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese. Veterinarians use a Body Condition Score to assess your pet’s weight status. An ideal dog or cat shows the following characteristics: her ribs can be felt when touching her but not necessarily visible, you can see an abdominal “tuck” in her belly, and from above you should be able to appreciate an hourglass shaped “waist” behind her ribs. This ideal weight is a Body Condition Score (BCS) of 3. As the BCS increases to 4 (overweight) or 5 (obese), these characteristics start to disappear. The abdominal tuck and waistline become less distinct, the ribs are difficult to palpate, or feel, and fat pads/rolls may form at the base of the tail.
There are several factors that can perpetuate weight gain. Overeating and eating an inappropriate diet are the most common causes. Table scraps are filled with protein and fat that domestic animals have trouble processing appropriately, leading to retention of these calories. There are medical disorders, such as hypothyroidism, that can lead to weight gain. Any human doctor will tell you that exercise is very important in maintaining good body condition, and the same is true in animals. Finally, as pets age, their activity levels change, and fewer calories are burned daily.
It is important that you keep your pet’s weight under control. Feed a proper diet in appropriate amounts (check the label on the food bag for recommended amounts for your pet’s weight), give your pet plenty of exercise, and keep up with regular health checkups. Keeping your pet fit is an easy and important way to keep them healthy and happy for a long time.
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