MOKOPANE – October is National Pet Obesity Month and veterinarians all over town urges pet owners to take their four legged friends for a free weight check.
Obesity has become such a big problem for pets as it is for humans and for National Pet Obesity Month many veterinarians around South Africa will be offering free weight assessments.
“I think that people, myself included, want to spoil their pets with luxury food which they really should not eat. Too many calories and too little exercise will ensure your pet to be overweight.”
She explained that when humans gain 1 kg of fat it does not feel like a lot or even look like a lot, but when pets pick up the same 1 kg it is easily recognisable to their small bodies. Pet owners is welcome to bring their pets to the veterinary for a free weight check.
Common causes of overweight pets are overfeeding, age, breed and neutering. Older pets are usually less active so they need fewer calories.
Age creeps up quickly and many pet parents forget to change to a ‘mature or senior’ food at around seven years of age. Some breeds are more likely to gain weight including Labrador Retrievers, Spaniels, Dachshunds, Pugs and mixed-breed cats.
Overweight pets live shorter lives. Even as little as 20% extra weight can increase the risk of serious conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and breathing problems.
Common signs of obesity:
• Ribs can not easily be felt.
• Loss of an obvious waist.
• Collar needs loosening.
• Difficulty walking.
• Slow movement.
• Shortness of breath.
• Sleeping more than usual.
Ideal weight for certain pets:
• Domestic shorthair cats: 3,5 – 4,5 kg.
• Persian cats: 4,5 – 5 kg.
• Boerboel dog: 50 – 76 kg.
• Boxer dog: 25 – 32 kg.
• German Shepherd dog: 34 – 43 kg.
• Basset Hound dog: 18 – 27 kg.
• Fox Terrier: 7 – 8 kg.
• Yorkshire Terrier: 2 – 3 kg.
“Taking your pet for a walk will do you both some good,” said Coetzee. She also mentioned that when giving food, restrict portion sizes and feed mostly high fibre food. There is also a variety of pet food on the market to help your pet lose weight.
