Don’t give in to those puppy dog eyes at the dinner table – the wrong foods could cause your pet to put on weight. Cat and dog obesity is more common than you might think.
When it comes to diets, the majority of us try to be good as often as possible, making it okay to have a treat or two every now and again. We’re careful about what we eat because we know about the negative effect a poor diet can have on our figures, as well as our overall health. Exactly the same principle applies to your pet.
Dogs will typically eat whatever they are given until it is gone. While cats demonstrate a little more self-control, if you are giving your companion a diet that contains more calories than they are burning, it could cause them to put on weight. In time, weight gain can lead to strain on your pet’s joints, reluctance to exercise and in extreme cases, major health conditions such as diabetes and cancer.
Contact us to book a weight check and diet consultation with one of our Nurses.
When it comes to weight gain, we’re not just talking dogs. Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and even hamsters can become overweight, and obese.
Exercising your pet doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be good fun and a great opportunity to bond. Why not build an obstacle course in the garden for your rabbit? Or make your own dangly toys for your cat?
It’s important to keep your pet as active as possible in between visits to the Vet. Encouraging your cat to jump, your dog to run, and your rabbit to hop around the garden, are all great ways to keep the pounds from piling on. Exercise also has a great mental impact on animals, and will keep them happy as well as healthy.
Bringing your pet to see one of our Vets at least once a year is a great way to ensure your companion is a healthy weight and is eating the right diet.
At STAR Vets, as well as thoroughly examining your pet during their annual check-up, we can also offer friendly advice to help you resist your pet’s ‘puppy dog eyes’ at the dinner table. We also hold Nurse-led weight clinics in Appleby Magna to create your companion a bespoke diet plan, and monitor their progress.
By making changes to your cat, dog, or other pet’s diet and lifestyle now, you can avoid pet obesity and greatly improve their quality of life.
With thousands of pet foods readily available in shops you’d be forgiven for not knowing which one is right for your companion. If you become a member of our Shining STAR Loyalty Scheme, we offer a cost-price food scheme to save you money on vet-recommended food.
If you are concerned about your pet’s weight, or would like to speak with a veterinary professional about their diet or our loyalty plan, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
