Healthy Pets Make a Happy You!

March 31, 2009

A recent study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) revealed that 44% of dogs and 57% of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese. The main cause of pet obesity is overfeeding. No one can stop themselves from feeding their pets when they give a longing look. But veterinarians say that overfeeding is not the right way to show your love for your pet. On the other hand, it causes a lot of harm to your pets.

High-calorie-treats and table scraps may reduce the life span of your pets. Diabetes, heart complications, back and joint pains, hip dysplasia and other endocrinal diseases are a few of the consequences that your pet might suffer due to an irregular or bad pet feeding habit. If you love your pet, then it is your responsibility to keep it hale and healthy. Here are a few tips to prevent overfeeding so that your pet doesn’t become obese.

First, purchase a pet scale. This is essential in maintaining a healthy pet. Most of the pet foods have a healthy diet printed on their cover for different age groups. Take a quick peek at the recommended amount before feeding your pet and strictly stick to the diet. You should also take your pet to the nearest veterinary practice. Veterinarians can help you chalk out a diet plan for your pet. There a number of diet pet foods available on the market today. Pick one from a local pet store. You can also choose to buy it online. Gradually, start replacing the regular food with the diet food in order to maintain your pet’s weight. To keep track of your pet’s weight, measure them regularly using pet scales.

Pet obesity can also be due to lack of exercise. Walking is the best option if your pet is a dog. If it’s a cat, then you can let it play around your house.

No Comments »

No comments yet.

RSS feed for comments on this post. TrackBack URL

Leave a comment

Name (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

Website