Obesity in pets has become a big problem. According to one survey, nearly half of all pets in the United States are overweight. If you go to your local dog park, you will certainly notice several obese dogs. Many pet owners are unaware that their pet is overweight. They believe that overfeeding their pets is the best way to spoil and treat them, despite the fact that overfeeding can cause serious health problems and shorten a dog’s life. Obesity can cut a dog’s life by two years.
How to counter pet obesity?
Use these ways to help your pet shed weight and stay fit.
Count Calories
You can’t feed your pet if you don’t know how many calories it needs each day. And don’t believe the package; the feeding guidelines are intended for active adult un-spayed or unneutered dogs and cats. If you feed an older, spayed, or neutered indoor lap potato the recommended amount, you are probably feeding 20-30% too much. Request that your veterinarian from places like Lake Norman Animal Hospital computes your pet’s daily calorie requirements.
Calculate Meals
A measuring cup is a pet parent’s best buddy in the fight against obesity. Some folks simply fill the plate or “estimate” how much to feed. Some pets, especially cats, are fed an “all-day banquet” as a result of the “keep the dish full” feeding technique. According to the APOP (Association for Pet Obesity Prevention), giving indoor cats and small dogs ten more kibbles of food each day can add up to a pound of weight gain every year. Next, determine how much food your pet requires per meal.
Tactical Treating
If you’re going to spoil your dogs, make it count. Too many pet treats are calorie bombs laden with sugar and fat, endangering our pets’ health. Select low-calorie, sugar-free sweets that are good for you. Always prefer treats with only one ingredient, such as sweet potato, salmon, or blueberry bites, or practical treats that help keep teeth clean or encourage activity.
Whatever you supply, remember to account for the extra calories. It is typical for pet owners to overfeed their pets by providing them with tiny snacks throughout the day. Thirty more calories per day add up to three pounds in a year.
Exercise
Exercise on a daily basis is our best buddy when it comes to living a pain-free life. Dog owners now have an excuse-free workout partner. Just 20-30 minutes of brisk walking can boost a dog’s immune system, enhance cardiovascular health, and alleviate a variety of behavioral difficulties. Every day, play with a laser pointer, remote-controlled toy, or paper ball for 5–15 minutes. Commit to daily walks with your dog, rain or shine. Walking is beneficial to your health from both ends. Visit this page to learn more on other alternatives to keep your pet healthy.
Reduce Carbs
The majority of fat pets do not require a high-carbohydrate diet. But that’s what most of us give our pets. According to the food label, several diets contain 60% or more carbohydrates. It is recommended that they have a well-balanced protein and carbohydrate diet. Many veterinarians prescribe a high protein/low carb diet. Before making any dietary changes, speak with your veterinarian. Certain pets, such as those suffering from kidney illness may require a particular diet or even require the best dog boarding Mooresville has to offer.
Finally
Each of us is responsible for assisting our pets in maintaining a healthy weight. Just as you wouldn’t walk your dog without a leash or let them eat only pizza and ice cream, pet owners are responsible for providing healthy, balanced diets and rewards. By following these easy principles, you may help your pet have the finest year ever.
