Weight Management for Pets

Obesity is a huge problem among cats and dogs, and although it doesn’t take away from adorable faces, it’s damaging to their health. We can help you get your feline or canine started on a weight loss plan that will keep them in good health. To learn how we can get your loyal companion to a healthy weight, reach out to us at 403-843-2234.

How do I know that my cat or dog is overweight?

The best way to get an accurate answer is to have your veterinarian examine them. By assessing their body and using a body condition score chart, we can determine if your cat or dog is overweight or obese. When assessing the patient the veterinarian will check if the back or profile from above looks rectangular, whether the waistline disappeared and if the ribs can be felt under their fat.

What habits contribute to my cat or dog’s weight gain?

We know that all that you do for your companion pal is out of love but there may be certain habits that could contribute to their weight gain. Here are some things that contribute to your cat or dog’s weight gain:

1. Free feeding - your feline or canine will simply eat out of boredom because the food is there
2. Feeding them table scraps
3. Daily treats are more than 10% of their daily calories
4. Not enough exercise or playtime

Why is it important for my cat/dog to lose weight?

Managing your cat or dog’s weight is a must as obesity makes them more likely to develop different health issues. We often see overweight and obese pets with the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Joint problems
• Kidney dysfunction
• High blood pressure
• Chronic inflammation
• Endocrine diseases
• Cancer
• Respiratory disorders