Pets are part of the family, and it’s only natural to want to spoil them with love and treats. Although extra cuddles are fine, too many snacks can affect your pet’s weight and overall wellness over time. Whenever you take your furry friends to a local veterinarian clinic, make a note of their weight. 

Below, the friendly team at Westside Veterinary Hospital in Statesboro, GA, shares a few steps to take if you notice the number creeping up.

1. Get Moving

Both dogs and cats need regular exercise, and it’s up to you to make sure they get it. Some breeds thrive on as little as 30 minutes of activity per day, but others require more intensive cardio. Research your pet’s particular exercise needs, then work a simple routine into your daily schedule. If you couple cardio with a balanced diet, your pet should start shedding pounds in no time.

2. Track Treats

You may be feeding your pet a perfectly reasonable amount of kibble at mealtime, but how many treats does your companion get throughout the day? It’s easy to give your dog or cat treats all day long without considering their total caloric count, and since treats tend to be richer than standard food, they are usually high in fat. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention reports that more than half of all US dogs are overweight, and too many indulgent treats are to blame for a significant portion of that figure.

3. Call Your Vet

If you track all your pet’s food and incorporate exercise into your daily routine and they still look a little “husky,” make an appointment at your veterinarian clinic. Sometimes, health conditions can affect a pet’s weight, and no amount of dieting will help without proper treatment.

If your pet is overweight and you’re not sure why, schedule an exam at Westside Veterinary Hospital for a full health assessment. Check out all the services this emergency veterinarian clinic provides by visiting them online, and call (912) 489-1998 to make an appointment today.