Like humans, dogs and cats require specific diets and need to maintain a healthy weight. Pet obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and many other health issues that significantly impact quality of life. It’s not always easy to determine how to manage your pet’s weight on your own, which is why it’s imperative to work with a veterinarian. This will ensure your pet is happy and maintains their health over the years.

Your Guide to Pet Weight Management

How to Determine Baseline Weight

Before you do anything, you need to understand what the target weight is for your pet. It varies across breeds and species, so speak with a veterinarian about an appropriate weight range. Leading up to their next wellness appointment, track your pet’s diet, daily exercise, and other factors like medications that may affect weight. The veterinarian can take a comprehensive look and, based on your pet’s current weight and build, determine if they need to lose or gain weight.

Dog Weight Management

It’s easy to spoil dogs with treats. Eventually, if they don’t burn enough calories through exercise, they’ll put on excess weight. Likewise, underfeeding can have serious health consequences. Always serve high-quality dog food recommended by your veterinarian, and make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise each day. Serve only the recommended portion, and keep treats and table scraps to a minimum. Try spreading meals out as well, serving smaller portions throughout the day rather than one or two large meals.

Cat Weight Management

House cats don’t have to hunt for food like their feral counterparts, meaning they don’t have to burn calories to eat. Many owners also allow them to free-feed, resulting in serious weight gain over time. Eliminate this issue by restricting free-feeding and serving recommended portions. To get your cat active, move their food bowl to different parts of the house, so they have to “hunt” for it. You can also provide interactive toys, so they get exercise chasing or climbing.

If it’s time for your pet’s next wellness exam, turn to Hayward Animal Hospital. Located in Hayward, WI, their skilled animal care staff take every measure to ensure pets are healthy and comfortable. They’ve served the area for over 30 years, and a veterinarian can assist with general and preventative care, animal surgery, pet dentistry, and more. Call (715) 634-8971 to schedule an exam, and visit them online to learn more about their animal hospital. You can also connect on Facebook for more pet care tips.