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Weight can have a significant impact on your pet’s quality of life. That’s why caring owners work with their veterinarian to manage their pet’s weight. If your dog or cat could stand to lose a few pounds, there are many simple and effective ways to help them do so. Enlisting the tips below will help your animal steer clear of the negative effects of obesity, including lowered immune function and respiratory problems.

A Guide to Pet Weight Management

1. Commit to an Exercise Regimen  

veterinarianWhether you let your dog run around at the dog park or you play with your cat with a feather toy around the house, a little bit of exercise goes a long way for pets. It improves their metabolism, allowing them to lose excess weight and stay trim. Check with your veterinarian before increasing their physical activity. Senior pets, in particular, may have conditions like arthritis, which can make exercising uncomfortable. A vet can help you create a plan that addresses your senior animal’s unique needs.  

2. Be Mindful of Their Food Intake

It’s essential to measure the quantity of food you are giving pets at each meal. Some owners skip this step, simply guessing as they fill their dog or cat’s bowl. This may leave them eating more calories than they need, contributing to weight gain. Keep a measuring cup near your pet’s food so you always know how much you are giving them. You can adjust this based on their weight.

3. Move Their Food Bowl

Give your pet a set amount of time to eat—five minutes—then put their food bowl away. This way, they are not snacking all day. This will help you gauge when they need to go to the bathroom and identify if they have not been eating, which may call for a visit to the veterinarian. Also, bowls can be placed on an upper or lower floor so pets have to take stairs to eat. This is another opportunity for them to get more exercise. Be sure to pass this by your veterinarian before implementing it, as older pets and certain breeds may have trouble going up or down stairs.


It’s important to work with a veterinarian before introducing a new diet. When you’re ready to better manage your dog or cat’s weight, TLC Pet Care Centers in Cincinnati, OH, can assist you. With over 30 years of industry experience, they’ll tailor their advice to age, breed, and other factors unique to your pet. Open seven days a week, they make tending to your animals’ health convenient. Call their east location at (513) 683-2300 or their west location at (513) 825-4011 to schedule an appointment today.

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