Pet obesity is a major health concern for pet owners since it can lead to serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and in some cases, even cancer. Obesity in dogs, cats, and horses is so common that vets now call it the “silent killer.” And while it’s easy to see obesity as a human problem, obesity in animals affects families too.
While obesity affects people of all ages, it’s especially common in humans and pets. Obesity can also lead to high blood pressure, and it’s also seen to shorten the lives of pets. Pets with obesity have a 60 percent risk of dying sooner than normal-weight pets, according to a study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). If you want your pet to live a long healthy life, it’s important to recognize the signs of obesity and how you can help prevent your pet from gaining too much weight.
Pets that are overweight face a higher risk of diseases, and carrying extra weight puts strain on their muscles and bones, affecting their quality of life. So, it is important to take the necessary measures to prevent your pets from gaining additional pounds. Along with taking steps to prevent these diseases, it’s also a good idea to consider getting pet insurance. This can help cover the medical expenses for any illnesses your pet may develop, as well as cover the cost of pet cremation in unfortunate cases.
Having said that, here are a few ways to prevent obesity in pets:
How To Avoid Obesity That May Shorten Your Pets Life
Feeding Healthy Foods
Obesity is a major problem in American pets, and it can lead to several health problems. More than half of all dogs are overweight or obese, and 80 percent of cats are overweight or obese. The good news is that you can prevent obesity in your pet by eating healthy foods and avoiding foods linked to weight gain, such as treats, table scraps, human foods, and junk food. You could even consider transitioning to a raw food diet, with the help of a reliable raw food guide, as it can help manage weight and promote a healthier, longer life for our beloved companions.
Exercise
Obesity can also make your pet feel sluggish, decrease their mobility, and even shorten your pet’s life. Luckily, exercise, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and limiting treats and table scraps have been demonstrated to help dogs lose weight and stay fit.
Avoid Overfeeding
Obesity is almost as bad a health risk for people as it is for dogs. Obesity is also a significant risk factor for certain kinds of cancer. Knowing the health risks of obesity and what you can do to prevent them is essential. Obesity isn’t just a health problem. So, avoiding overfeeding your pet can reduce the chance of obesity.
Feeding on Time
Obesity is becoming more rampant in all breeds of dogs and cats. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, more than 50 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats are overweight or obese. Obesity puts pets at increased risk for disease and shortens their lives. Fortunately, you can prevent obesity. By feeding your dog or pet on time, you can help it maintain its ideal weight.
Regular Checkup
If you think about it, our pets are a lot like us. They love treats and food, and food is a big part of their lives. But too much food, even treats, can cause obesity, damaging their organs and shortening their lives. Like people, pets need regular veterinary care to ensure they live a long and happy life. One way you can help your pets avoid obesity is to ensure they get regular checkups at their local veterinarian.
In conclusion, your pet’s lifespan may shorten because of obesity. According to a recent study, people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher are at an increased risk for a shorter lifespan. Half of American adults are overweight or obese, and pets are no exception. Obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, are the most common causes of death among dogs and cats.