Why Weight Management Is Important For Your Pet

Obesity is a growing problem among dogs across the US. This health issue continues to worsen and has affected more than 50% of canines. There are a series of diseases that come along with the extra pounds. Your role as a pet owner is to be watchful of the daily caloric intake of your pet.  

Health problems can be a lot more frequent and are more common in overweight dogs. Canine obesity is associated with several health issues including diabetes, cardiorespiratory and kidney disease, osteoarthritis, even some cancers. With all these conditions and their complications, their lifespans are tremendously reduced to 2.5 years.

The excess weight will exert a lot of force on their joints which can lead to arthritis. Not only will it cause limitations in how your dog moves, but it can cause them severe pain. For cats, a significant change in their appearance provides the best clue that they are already obese. Obese cats would appear unkempt in some areas of their body because they can no longer twist and stretch to groom themselves.      

Losing weight can be a challenge but this is something you can openly discuss with your veterinarian Fort Collins, CO, and ask about weight management plans for your pet.