How To Maintain Your Pet’s Weight

How To Maintain Your Pet’s Weight

 In Andes-Straley Services, Andes-Straley Veterinary Hospital, Pet Care, Pet Grooming

We all want our pets to live long, happy, and healthy lives. Helping your pet maintain a healthy lifestyle will reduce the risks of specific conditions and contribute to a higher-quality life. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an overweight pet is more at risk for developing health conditions. Some of these conditions include diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory disease, kidney disease, joint problems, and cancer. So what can you do to maintain your pet’s weight?

Best Defense is a Good Defense

A healthy lifestyle from day one is the first step in ensuring a healthy weight. Talk to your vet early about what this means for your pet’s specific breed, gender, size, and age. Your vet can help you choose the right food and exercise schedule to ensure your pet maintains a healthy weight. Be sure to schedule regular check-ups to monitor your pet’s health.

Shedding Those Pounds

If you find yourself in a situation where your pet is overweight, don’t worry. With a proper weight loss plan, your pet will soon be on their way to a healthy weight. Weight loss for your pet may involve changing some of your habits and how you interact with your pet. You need to resist those puppy-dog eyes begging for food scraps at the table. It’s important not to let them indulge in too many tasty high calorie treats. When it comes to regular feedings, don’t always trust the label. Recommended portions printed on a food bag may not be what’s right for your particular pet. Consult with your vet about the best meal schedule, portion size, and brand of food. Just like people, calorie intake and nutrients are essential for a well-rounded, healthy diet.

Your pet’s exercise routine doesn’t need to be an unpleasant chore. Exercise can be a fun activity for both you and your pet, whether it’s taking your dog to the park or playing games with your cat. Working in some variety also ensures that neither of you gets bored, making it easier to keep up with the exercise plan.

If you’d like to learn more about maintaining your pet’s weight, contact Andes-Straley. At Andes-Straley, we provide multiple services for owners and their four-legged friends. To learn more, visit us online here or call us at (423) 378-4443 today!