If you think only a few pet owners have obese dogs, you’re mistaken. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention’s study in 2018, almost 50% of canines in the US are obese. Our four-legged buddy’s fitness and health will depend on us, and whether they get overweight is evidence of how we care for them.
So if you’re wondering what caused your canine to be overweight or just curious about preventing it in your pet, we’ll tell you everything we know as we get going.
What causes dog obesity?
Folks nowadays are often drawn to pudgy puppies, plump babies, and other chubby things. However, the health effects of weight problems when their babies and canines grow up are far from cute. Thankfully, pet obesity is amongst the most preventable and treatable conditions. So to increase your awareness of preventing your pet from getting obese, we’ve detailed the five primary causes of pet obesity.
1. Aging
As canines age, their activity and energy level might drop, leading them to burn fewer calories. Like people, canines lose muscle when they age. The loss of muscle mass can cause slower metabolism, leading to fat gain. If you do not adjust their diet plan to compensate for their lack of physical activity, they may gain more unnecessary pounds.
2. Overfeeding
Overfeeding is among the obvious ways canines become overweight. If you live in a family that loves pets, your furry companion could overeat without you knowing, as your family members might feed them human foods or treats at different times and more than what they should consume daily.
However, your canine’s food or treat consumption can be easily monitored by marking a calendar or whiteboard in your living room so all your family members can see and keep track. Did you know that obesity can even happen in exotic pets? This is why it’s always vital to monitor their food consumption and regularly take them to an exotic pet vet to guarantee they’re healthy and living their best life in their enclosure.
3. Injuries or health conditions
Pets struggling with chronic conditions, injuries, or health problems can affect their weight. Canines with mobility issues or pain due to particular health conditions are less likely to exercise than healthier ones. Since they have lower energy requirements than active and fit canines, they can be easily overfed and gain more weight.
If your pet is in a condition that can’t freely exercise, you may inquire from facilities like Clearlake Veterinary Clinic to know the light exercise routines that will keep them physically fit without any discomfort.
4. Lack of exercise
Getting too little or no exercise is a common reason dogs gain weight. Although the amount of exercise dogs need will depend on their size, breed, and age, aim for 20-60 minutes of activity with your pet daily. But if your pet hasn’t exercised the entire week or month, do not suddenly go for a 3-mile run with them, as this might cause shock and strain to their body.
Should your pet get broken bones or fractures during your exercise with them, immediately stop the activity and book appointment with a vet surgeon for urgent treatment.
5. Spay/neuter
Did you know that a decline in sex hormones can make your pet feel hungrier and physically inactive? If you’re observing the same signs for your recently sterilized pet, seek your vet’s assistance for the proper food plans for your canine who has gained too much weight due to neutering or spaying.
