It’s easy to overfeed your pet and spoil them with treats, and while they may seem happy, the extra calories can lead to serious health problems. Pet obesity is a real issue, and if you’re an owner, you need to regulate their weight the same way you do yours. The staff at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital in Columbia, MO, advise that creating a diet plan with your veterinarian is essential to keeping your furry friends healthy. Here, they want to share several pet obesity facts to shed light on the issue.

3 Facts About Pet Obesity

1. Owners Aren’t Aware

Owners love their pets no matter what, but that can lead to not realizing that they’re overweight. A 2017 study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) found that 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the U.S. are overweight. The APOP also found that 22% of dog owners and 15% of cat owners thought their obese pet was at a normal weight. To avoid this, schedule regular visits with your veterinarian so they can watch your pet’s weight and advise on their diet.

2. Pets Deal With Similar Issues as Obese Humans

Pet obesity doesn’t simply mean your cat or dog needs to shed a few pounds. Like humans, unchecked obesity can lead to a variety of health issues, including type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, respiratory problems, and high blood pressure. These can have a significant impact on your pet’s quality of life. Findings by the Purina® Life Span Study even showed that it can cut two years off of your dog’s life.

3. It’s Mostly in the Treats

An APOP survey found that treats are one of the leading causes of pet obesity, not serving sizes. An online poll showed that 93% of pet and dog owners served treats, with 26% giving them three or more times each day. Treats can be loaded with extra calories that counteract a healthy diet and exercise. Speak with your veterinarian about healthy treat alternatives, as well as how often you should serve them.

Working closely with your veterinarian is the best way to keep your pet at a healthy weight, and the staff at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital will help. They understand that each pet needs personalized care, which is why they believe in building truly individualized plans for each. They’re also proud to offer comprehensive pet care services, including grooming, pet boarding, and emergency services. Call (573) 449-7387 today to schedule a wellness exam, and visit their website for a complete breakdown of services at their veterinary hospital. You can also find their team on Facebook.