National Pet Obesity Awareness Day

• Posted on 11 October 2022
• By Staff Blogger: Josephine Richardson
• Posted in cats, Dog & Cat Feeding Tips, Dog & Cat Nutrition Tips, Dog & Cat Wellness, dogs, healthy pet food, Natural & Safe Pet Food Options, Raw Dog & Cat Food Diet Tips
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October 12th is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day. Check out these tips to help your cat or dog lose weight.

On October 12th, the United States recognizes the importance of keeping your pets healthy and calls this National Pet Obesity Awareness Day. Over the past few years, there has been a large rise in the number of plus-size cats and dogs. In a recent study, more than half of all domesticated cats and dogs were found to be overweight. While it is hard to say no to their sweet faces at the dinner table, it is important to feed your pet a safe, healthy, and balanced diet. 

What Is Pet Obesity?

Like their human companions, dogs and cats can be at risk for health conditions due to unhealthy weight or obesity. Although many consider underweight pets a cause for concern, there is an equal concern for overweight pets. Obesity in cats and dogs accounts for more than a quarter of the population. Obesity is an accumulation of excess body fat over 20% of their healthy weight. Obesity symptoms can range from lack of exercise, eating unhealthy or carb-filled food, too many daily calories, or that naughty family member who gives a third meal because they see sad puppy eyes. Obesity isn’t found in just canines, we often see obesity in our feline friends too. 

Four Health Risks For Obese Pets

Besides the obvious symptoms of eating too many calories and not enough exercise, some serious health issues can lead to excess weight gain. This can be problematic as the excess weight begins to cause chronic long-term issues with joint health, heart health, and overall quality of life. If your cat or dog has gained weight quickly, diagnostic testing with your veterinarian is suggested. It is best to rule out any thyroid, adrenals, and pancreas imbalances before a weight loss program is underway. 

How Much Should My Dog Or Cat Eat? 

Oftentimes, it is a simple calculation of calories to start the weight loss program. Many people just don't know exactly what and how much to feed their pets. I can think of one customer in particular who needed help reducing her dog’s weight after a wellness visit with her veterinarian. When we added all the daily calories together, we realized that she was feeding two and a half times what her dog needed daily. Once we limited the food calories and figured out daily treat calories, we needed to get all family members on board to help get the weight off! The dog was back to a healthy weight within a few months of the adjustments. 

Six Weight Loss Tips For Dogs & Cats

1. Toss the red solo or random cup you use to scoop out your pet’s daily food rations. Use an actual measuring cup or scale with feeding time. This ensures the correct daily calorie intake.
2. Count treat calories. If someone in the house likes to overtreat, these calories add up quickly! We offer several low-calorie treat options. 
3. Portion food for the day. This can include treats and is helpful if more than one person is responsible for mealtime.
4. Weight loss takes time. Start with short, small walks and work up to longer, doable exercise periods. For cats, invest in an exercise wheel to help with weight loss.
5. Consider adding fresh, low-calorie foods. This could be as easy as:

As we always say at the Pet Beastro, “Some raw is better than no raw.” Raw food can be a great way to make your dog or cat leaner. 

Eat Healthy, Play Happy

Healthy body weight can be directly linked to a happier and healthier dog or cat. Pets that maintain an ideal body weight are more likely to live longer and are less likely to develop lifelong chronic diseases. Overweight dogs and cats are susceptible to an increased risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, urinary bladder stones, and hypertension. Increased body weight can also cause strain on the joints and cause early onset of arthritis.

We Are Here To Help

Stop by our retail locations in Madison Heights, Michigan, just north of Detroit, or in Warren, Southeast Corner of East 14 Mile Road and Schoenherr, which are open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Also, visit our 24/7 natural pet food treats, toys, and supplies store online. Please message us on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok for further information!