Does Your Pet Need To Lose Weight?

1st February 2023

Many people decide to start the new year with a resolution to lose weight and get fit. Our pets might also benefit from making a healthy start to the year.

How can I find out what my pet weighs?

It is best to take your pet to the veterinary surgery for a weight check as the scales there are a suitable size for pets and are regularly checked for accuracy.

How do I know if my pet’s weight is healthy and correct?

In addition to comparing your pet’s weight to published weight charts and to previous records, the veterinary team will be able to work out your pet’s body condition score. The body condition score looks at body shape and fat coverage over the ribs to give a score from 0-5 where 3 is ideal.

In general, in healthy dogs and cats the ribs will be easy to feel but not visible, and a “waist” will be visible from above and from the side.

How should I help my pet to lose weight?

Treats and titbits can be reduced or replaced with low-calorie alternatives.

Your veterinary surgeon or nurse may advise you to reduce the total amount of pet food that you give to your pet.

Prescription diet foods may be recommended. These are designed to provide the correct balance of minerals and vitamins but a lower level of energy. They use food technology to make your pet feel full and satisfied.

What else?

Regular exercise is very important. Dogs can be taken on longer walks, go swimming, or join classes for agility, fitness or scent work. Cats are best encouraged to play with toys.

Meals will last longer and make your pet feel more satisfied if they are fed in a feeding toy such as a Kong.

Before you start

Make sure that your vet has checked that there are no health conditions responsible for the weight gain and that it is safe to put your pet on a diet!