Your pet is a part of your family, so you want to do everything you can to ensure that he or she is healthy and happy. If your pet begins gaining weight, it could begin to have a negative impact on its health, so talk to your veterinarian about your concerns. Other than diet and lack of excercise, below are some of the factors that could be causing your pet’s unexplained weight gain.

3 Causes of Unexplained Weight Gain in Your Pet

1. Parasites

One condition that could be causing your pet’s weight gain particularly puppies is the presence of intestinal parasites, which your pet may acquire from their mother or from ingesting eggs or larvae from contaminated food, water, toys, and other objects. Their bloated appearance make them appear as though they’ve gained weight. This is due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen due to lack of proper nutrients.  Have your pet checked by a  veterinarian to determine what’s causing the weight gain. Appropriate laboratory testing can be run and the proper medication will be given to rid your pet of the parasites.

2. Pregnancy

If your dog is a female, unexplained weight gain could be pregnancy. Even if you don’t have intact male animals at your home, it’s possible that your pet could have interacted with them while outside or in the care of someone else. Your veterinarian will test for pregnancy, so take your pet to an animal clinic. This ensures the health and safety of both your dog and their potential babies, and it allows you to make sure that something more serious isn’t the cause of their weight gain.

3. Poor Diet

Another primary cause of weight gain in your pet could be due to a poor diet and lack of exercise. If you’re feeding your pet nutrient- and protein-dense foods while they’re stuck inside the house all day, they could be consuming more calories than they can burn, which leads to weight gain. This is especially common in older dogs whose dietary needs have changed or who have medical conditions that affect their activity level. Speak to your veterinarian at your animal clinic about your animal’s weight gain, as they will recommend changes in diet or lifestyle.

If you need a reliable veterinarian in Sacramento, CA, to monitor your pet’s weight, then contact Vintage Park Veterinarian Clinic. They’re passionate about caring for your pets like they’re part of their own family, providing services that include microchipping, surgical care, flea and tick prevention, wellness exams, diagnostic imaging, dental care, testing and bloodwork, and an on-site pharmacy. Their animal clinic offers convenient appointments and comprehensive care for your pet. Learn more about their services online, and call (916) 688-5486 to schedule your appointment.