How to maintain a healthy weight for your pets is the most common concern among pet parents. Their concern is genuine because pets gain weight or become underweight due to their negligence.
You might wonder about this statement but it’s true unless there are some underlying health issues.
Remember, our pets are family. They offer friendship and love without demands. But, they also need care for optimal health – especially a healthy weight – which allows them a thriving life.
While discussing maintaining a healthy weight in pets you must follow a few things. For example, choosing a balanced diet or adopting an exercise routine is necessary. It will help prevent pets from gaining a higher weight and chronic diseases as well. A healthy diet boosts their immune systems and improves their quality of life.
This article is all about the importance of maintaining your pet’s ideal weight. Let’s read it!
How to Check if Your Pet Has a Healthy Weight?
The simple rule is “Observe your pet regularly for higher weight issues” by assessing its body. If you know about BCS (Body Condition Score), perform it. You can also get help from a veterinarian for BCS.
If your pet has an ideal score with BCS – between 4 and 5 – don’t worry. You have helped your pet maintain a healthy weight. But, if the BCS test score is lower than 4, your pet is underweight. And, if your pet’s BCS test score is greater than 5, your pet has a higher weight.
Remember, every pet has unique physical conditions. Assess your pet’s weight according to its type, breed, and size. For this, you can consult Purina’s 9-point BCS system.
Check resources about “How to Maintain A Healthy Weight for Your Pet” on PETBIZS. Also, explore our Food Category page for diets to keep your pet at an optimal weight.
Health Risks for Pets with a Higher Weight
Pets with higher weight are prone to get one or more of the following diseases.
- Diabetes: Pets with higher weight index have larger fat stores. These cause insulin resistance, which leads to diabetes mellitus.
- Heart Disease: Obesity can harm the heart and cause heart disease, high blood pressure, and heart failure.
- Respiratory Issues: Pets with higher weights struggle to breathe. Thus, they are more prone to respiratory problems.
- Joint Problems: Extra weight puts pressure on the joints which can cause arthritis and hip dysplasia.
- Reduced Lifespan: Gaining excess weight can reduce the life expectancy of a pet by one and a half to two years.
Remember, a healthy weight will help your pet avoid these issues. Help your pets maintain a healthy weight. It will also help boost their mood and energy preventing many medical conditions.
How to Maintain a Healthy Weight for Your Pet
Well, many things contribute to maintaining a healthy weight for pets. But, in this article, we’ll focus on only two major factors: i.e. Balanced diet and Regular exercise.
First thing first: Don’t overfeed your pet(s).
You must observe your pet’s diet routine to maintain a healthy weight. Always prefer a balanced diet that has all essential nutrients.
Today, with the rise of the commercial pet foods market, it is very hard to select a diet that aligns with your pet’s health preferences. Almost all the brands claim to meet pets’ life cycle, size, and health needs.
While selecting a food for your pet, always Check the Label. Ensure your select pet food has all the necessary nutrients and it meets your pet’s diet requirements.
In addition, Adjust Portion size to keep your pet at an optimal weight. The best is to use an automatic pet feeder to avoid overfeeding.
Don’t forget to maintain the Feeding Schedule. Adjust the food intervals for your pet according to their activity level, size, and breed.
Focus on Regular Exercise
Physical activities for your pet are necessary to help keep off extra weight. Regular exercise will help your pet maintain a healthy weight. Here are some tips for you to create an effective exercise plan for your pet:
- Determine Activity Level: Different pets perform best at different activity levels. Choose according to your pet’s breed, age, and health when deciding on their exercise.
- Vary the Activities: Play with your pet often and take him for a walk. Don’t forget to train your pet in between play and walk sessions because it will also help your pet avoid boredom.
- Monitor for Signs of Overexertion: During exercise, watch for signs of tiredness, stiffness, or breathing problems in your pet.
- Consider Your Pet’s Health: For pets with certain health issues like diabetes, ask your vet about the best exercise practices.
Final Words!
Having a higher weight index is risky for your pets’ health and shortens their life expectancy. By assessing your pet’s weight and classifying it, you can create a balanced diet and exercise plan. It will work as a permanent solution to obesity in your pets. Your vet can help you design a balanced diet and exercise program for your pet.
