October 6th, 2010 by Jenny

It is not uncommon for one of my clients to be utterly astonished once they realize that their dog or cat’s weight has topped the scale either up or down. Why didn’t they notice the change? It’s because it often happens little by little, day by day, right before their eyes.

An increase in weight may be as a result obvious. Way too many doggie snacks in and not adequate exercise. Even if you believe that you are practicing excellent portion control, over eating may easily happen. A cup of food to one person is not enough for the next. So they supply a tad bit more. You only give `a’ cookie, while the next overly generous family member presents two or three. Additional calories add up very quickly. Are you aware that a one pound weight gain for a Chihuahua is similar to a one hundred and twenty five pound woman putting on thirty one pounds?

There are also several less blatant explanations for an increase of your pet’s waist-line. Hormonal conditions such as an underactive thyroid,( hypothyroidism) or an overactive adrenal gland causing hyperadrenocorticisim,(Cushing’s disease), can affect metabolic rate. Neutering likewise has metabolic consequences. Numerous studies have demonstrated that when a pet undergoes a castration or an ovariohysterectomy (spay), the rate at which they burn energy is reduced by nearly a third A neutered pet still incurs much more positive effects than the negative so I are nevertheless a solid proponent of these surgeries.

Advancing age may also be the cause of your four-legged friend packing on the fat. As our bodies age we all will drop lean muscle mass. Muscle requires a large amount of energy in order to function properly. Lower muscle mass usually means much less requirement for calories. Don’t be fooled into giving your four-legged friend the exact same amount you did when it was younger and carried the same weight. Its energy needs have scaled downwards.

A rise in weight can pose significant health risks for your pet. An obese pet may have breathing difficulties, a compromised immune system, be at elevated danger for anesthesia, grapple with skin disorders, and experience with problems because of overburdened joints or spinal disc disease. Research has demonstrated that overweight pets age faster and have a reduced quality of life.

Weight loss may be equally as serious. You might think that your cat has found the fountain of youth. Your cat is consuming more food, racing around like a kitten and is losing weight. The truth is, your kitty might be a victim of an overactive thyroid gland. If left untreated, high blood pressure, sudden blindness and heart complications might manifest.

Diseases that include diabetes mellitus, intestinal ailments, liver malfunction, cancer and even dental disease may cause your pet to suddenly lose weight and condition.

How could you tell if your family pet is fit? While your pet is standing up, you should observe an indentation after it’s ribcage. Place your hand on the side of its chest and with light pressure, you should be able to feel the ribs. If you are pinching an inch, your pal is obese. In the event the ribs are very extremely notable, it may be under weight. What kind of diet and how much is correct for your pet’s stage of life? Your veterinarian is best proficient expert to make these determinations along with your help. However requirements can change. Make a twice yearly wellness check-up for your pet. This very simple act can enhance the odds that your dog or cat will age gracefully.