Pet Obesity
Just like us, animals can put on too much weight - usually due to eating too much and moving too little. Animals that are obese carry an excess of body fat sufficient to cause them health problems and lessen their quality of life.
People are considered to be obese if their body fat is 20-25% above what it should be. In pets obesity is less well defined but experts believe it is similar to that seen in people.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) says obesity affects millions of animals worldwide. It estimates that between 22-44% of dogs and cats are overweight or obese.
Symptoms
- Breathlessness
- Heat stroke
- High blood pressure
- Skin diseases
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cancers Bone & Joint problems
What causes pet obesity?
The main cause for obesity in pets tends to be the same as for people - eating too much and moving too little. If you consume calories (units of energy in food) but fail to burn it off through physical activity, the calories get converted into fat cells.
How is pet obesity treated?
A vet will check your pet and recommend a weight reduction programme - which will include changes to your pet's diet and exercise regime.