If you were thinking about sharing some of your holiday feast with your pet, keep this in mind: according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 59% of cats and 54% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight. Just like people, these “fluffy” pets are more likely to develop diabetes, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, joint injuries, and cancer.
The fact is that well-loved pets are often too-well-fed pets. Your AMCC veterinarian can assist you in choosing the best diet for your animal friend, and offers these tips to help pets slim down:
• Measure your pet’s food to make sure you’re not overfeeding
• Place food into toys that require interaction with your dog or cat to receive a food reward (food puzzle).
• Hide kibble around the house so that your cat must hunt for food, or put it high on a kitty tree
• Spread meals out throughout the day (but make sure the total amount fed for the day is the correct amount)
• Play with your cat or dog using love and attention, not treats
If you’re concerned about your pet’s weight or have questions about feeding and exercise, don’t hesitate to schedule an exam by calling 571-434-0250.