{"id":3747,"date":"2024-11-11T12:36:28","date_gmt":"2024-11-11T17:36:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dupontvet.com\/blog\/?p=3747"},"modified":"2024-11-11T12:36:29","modified_gmt":"2024-11-11T17:36:29","slug":"pet-obesity-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dupontvet.com\/blog\/pet-obesity-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Pet Obesity"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When you see a pet every single day, it can be challenging to notice gradual changes to their appearance or behavior. That is, until their routine wellness exam\u2014it\u2019s common for pet owners to be surprised by their pet\u2019s weight. Because of the massive impact of pet obesity on overall health, happiness and longevity, we aim to help pet owners maintain their pet\u2019s optimal weight through every life stage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Causes of Pet Obesity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

All pets can suffer the consequences of extra weight. Caused primarily by eating too much, obesity is compounded by not exercising enough. Additionally, other health conditions can impact a pet\u2019s weight. The good news is that with a moderate approach to their diet and exercise routine, it is possible to prevent obesity.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Look at Breed, Age, and Body Type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A pet is considered overweight when they are 30% over the ideal weight for their breed and body type. Because it can vary wildly between pets, good communication with your veterinarian can be very helpful to achieving a healthy weight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pets that are at a healthy weight will have easy to feel ribs and, when viewed from the side, a tucked look to the belly at the hind leg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Show of Love<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s normal and common for pet owners to express affection and appreciation to their pets by giving them food. Whether extra treats or table scraps, it\u2019s critical not to equate food with love. Because pet obesity has the potential to impede normal life, like climbing stairs or going for a walk around the block, maintaining a healthy weight is critical to quality of life and longevity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Huge Ramifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Weight gain can lead to or exacerbate the following serious health conditions in pets:<\/p>\n\n\n\n