In the United States, 59% of dogs and 61% of cats are considered overweight or obese, according to data collected in 2022 by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). Research shows that these pets are more likely to develop certain diseases, such as arthritis or diabetes.

The Red Oak Animal Hospital team understands that managing a pet’s weight is often easier said than done and that developing a weight management plan is not always straightforward. To help pet owners start their pet down the right weight management path, we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks.

#1: Learn the risks associated with pet obesity

Understanding the risks associated with pet obesity should motivate you to help your pet lose or maintain a healthy weight. Research shows that lean pets who eat less live an average of two years longer than overweight pets who eat more. This parallels human research, which shows that moderate (i.e., reasonable) calorie restriction is associated with longer life.

Research also shows that obese pets are more likely to develop several diseases, because excess fat cells secrete chemical signals that cause widespread, low-grade inflammation. Over time, the inflammation can cause cell structure and function changes, resulting in disease. This higher disease risk may partially explain why obese pets have a shorter lifespan. Diseases include:

  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes or insulin resistance
  • Respiratory and heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney disease
  • Cancer

#2: Learn how to assess your pet’s body weight

Assessing body weight is not as simple as looking at a height-to-weight chart—a healthy weight is determined relative to a pet’s body frame and musculature. Veterinarians use a body condition scoring (BCS) system, which ranks a pet’s muscle tone and fat stores on a scale of one through five or one through nine. The middle of the scale is a healthy weight, the low end is underweight, and the high end is overweight. Ask our veterinary team to show you our body condition scale and how to assess your pet at home by looking at a few key areas, including their waist and ribs.

#3: Partner with our veterinary team to assess health and develop a weight loss plan

If we determine your pet is overweight, we must assess overall health. Some diseases can cause weight gain, and treatment will often resolve the weight issue, while other diseases may result from weight gain. The point of weight management is optimal health, so we must address these problems as well as the weight. Scheduling a visit with our team is the first step to a healthier pet.

After we assess your pet’s overall health and treat their existing conditions, we can develop a plan specific to your pet’s needs. The plan will include diet and exercise recommendations that fit your lifestyle and address your furry pal’s unique nutritional requirements.

#4: Encourage your pet to move more

Exercise is key to weight control but must be customized to your pet’s ability. Overweight pets with joint pain or reduced mobility need low-impact, short-duration exercises, such as short walks or water therapy. Avoid exercising in the heat, because obese pets are at higher heatstroke risk. Go outside only during the cooler times of day,or, exercise indoors with high-energy play sessions for dogs and food puzzles or laser chase toys for cats.

#5: Swap out high-calorie pet treats

Small changes at home can lead to big changes in your pet’s weight. Consider treats—rather than not giving treats at all, give treats that are less calorically dense. For dogs, try low-starch vegetables (e.g., green beans, bell pepper slices)—if your dog likes ice cubes, purchase frozen vegetables that will keep longer. For cats, freeze-dried fish or shredded chicken provide tiny nibbles with minimal sugar.

#6: Change your pet’s begging habits

When you cut back an overweight pet’s usual food amount, they may start begging—or perhaps their begging got them into this situation in the first place. A low-calorie-density food can help with begging behavior, but you may need additional strategies. When your pet begs, try providing them with a food-free activity they enjoy, like taking them for a walk or playing with a favorite toy.

#7: Commit to your pet’s plan and follow up

Everyone in the household must be committed for your pet’s weight loss plan to work. Ask family members to join you on follow-up veterinary visits and weigh-ins, so they understand the importance of the pet’s weight loss journey and can celebrate wins along the way.

Extra weight on a pet’s body can put them at risk for serious health concerns and may shorten their life. With so much on the line, managing your pet’s weight is crucial. Contact the Red Oak Animal Hospital team for a weight management consultation or to adjust your pet’s current diet and weight loss plan.