It’s not just humans who need to watch their weight. Nicola Scott reveals how you can improve your pet’s health
Did you know that a dog eating a sausage is the equivalent of a human eating three hamburgers, and for a cat a large chunk of cheese equals six donuts? In moderation these little indulgences may be harmless, but if you’re dishing them out on a regular basis they could be seriously affecting your pet’s health and quality of life.
We spoil our pets because we love them, but it appears these apparent acts of kindness are fuelling a rapidly growing obesity crisis. So much so that veterinary professionals predict that in 10 years’ time we could easily be crowned heavy weight champions of the pet world. But we can’t blame it all on treats; our pets are simply eating too much.
So many of us fall into the habit of tipping food into a bowl without too much thought, but not following feeding guidelines is cited as the single biggest contributor to weight gain for all pets – especially cats (72%) and small furries (60%) – according to a report by the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA).
Obesity has lasting consequences on your pet’s health. It causes breathing difficulties, skin issues, and impacts their day-to-day life, but it’s the underlying long-term implications that pose the biggest risk. Carrying excess weight can lead to arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. It can also shorten their life, and in some cases be fatal.
Alarmingly, many pet owners don’t even recognise their pet is overweight often passing them off as being ‘all fluff’, ‘big boned’, or simply ‘cuddly’. They may not have obvious wobbly bits, but talk to your vet and you’ll be surprised at what’s considered an ideal weight.
Alison brought Coco, her nine-year-old Golden Retriever, in to see her vet because he was off colour and seemed a bit stiff: “Coco wasn’t as active, he was plodding rather than trotting and wasn’t really interested in chasing balls,” she says. “I thought he could do with some joint supplements but was surprised when I was told it would help if he lost a few pounds.”
Following an appointment at the vets’ Weight Management Clinic, Alison was advised to weigh out Coco’s food and stretch out his walks. However, for the first few weeks the scales crept up.
“Coco was eating soil because he was hungry, so we switched to a satiety diet and made a few tweaks along the way. This really made a difference; he wasn’t hungry between meals, his energy levels increased and he actually started running again,” said Alison.
But can inactive pets lose weight simply by going on a diet?
“Diet alone is the most influential factor in any weight loss programme,” says Georgia Woods RVN CertCFVHNut PHC at the University of Liverpool’s Royal Canin® Weight Management clinic.
“For those cats and dogs that are unable to exercise at all due to other medical issues further calorie restriction may be needed, but weight loss is still very achievable. It just takes longer.”
Coco was 42.4kg in April and reached his ideal weight of 37kg in August. He lost 5.4kgs. When you think that’s the human equivalent of almost two stones for a man, it’s pretty impressive.
Weight watchers: If you gently run your hands over your pet’s body can you feel their ribs? Can you see their waist when you look from above, and is their stomach tucked in instead of hanging loose? No? Then they’re probably overweight.
Dieting is not as straightforward for cats and dogs as humans. There’s no such thing as a bikini diet or boot camp for animals, healthy weight loss must be slow and steady (months rather than weeks) so speak to your vet before you start. Many practices run a weight management clinic where a qualified nurse will work out a tailored diet based on your pet’s body condition score (BCS), age, breed and pre-existing medical history. You’ll be given an achievable target weight, advice about feeding, and tips on exercise. Regular weigh-ins are encouraged and support is there whenever you need it.
Let's get physical...
There aren’t many cats that will tolerate a lead and harness and go for a trot around the block, so here are some indoor alternatives to get them off your lap.
Wheel of weight loss: This beautiful bespoke oversized hamster wheel will help shed a few pounds – there’s even space for a running buddy. The MacClaw wheel from £500
Cat and mouse: This clever gadget works along the same lines as when you move your foot under the duvet (in our house at least). Only there’s no risk of blood loss. Predator £34.20
Now that’s magic: Double stitched and stuffed with catnip, this sweet durable wand from eco-friendly ethical pet company Beco will take hours of batting. Lottie the Ladybird wand from £5.99
Point and laugh: Watching your crazed cat run after the red spot is hilarious. Make sure there’s a reward (e.g catnip mouse) at the end of the chase so he doesn’t feel cheated. Cat pointer £7.10
Circuit training: This eight-piece circuit with a motion-activated ball to swipe at has gaps that allow curious cats to safely stick their paws in and get close to the action. Senses super Roller Circuit £9.99
You can check out another petacular piece by clicking here
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