Obesity is the most common nutritional disease in pets. Obesity means the excess deposition of fatty tissue in the body. It is estimated that over 30% of the dog population is obese and their owners are not even aware of it.Obesity is a dangerous condition because overweight pets tend to have more illnesses and a shorter life. Our overweight pets also tend to not enjoy life as they should, due to too much effort.

1. Heart and vascular problems – they have a 75 % increase in these types of problems such as congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure.
2. Mobility problems – 57 % increase in our overweight pets including arthritis, problems with discs in the back and ligament injuries and problems.
3. Digestive problems like constipation and gas.
4. Metabolic diseases – diabetes mellitus is higher in overweight pets especially cats.

A mildly overweight animal can lose weight by the owner reducing their food intake by 10 - 30 % and to start an exercise program (something as simple as a walk 2-3 times per week is excellent for the pet and for the owner). This is only a mild change so that in a period of 6 – 12 months the pet is in its more ideal range of weight. The goal with these pets is to nip the problem in the butt early before their ability to exercise is impossible or dangerous.

The obese pet is another story. An actual weight program will be necessary to make sure that the weight comes off safely and that exercise is possible without causing lameness or cardiovascular problems. The entire family must be informed so that treats and doubling up on meals or endless refills are not in the works and the potential risk to the pet if they are to stay at this weight. These are some of the most common problems with a weight loss program = guiltthat comes across as compensation with treats that most people don't count as calories when actually they are usually more packed with calories than pet food.The best treats are fruit, vegetables and low calorie treats.

The obese pet should be put on a calorie reduced diet and the amount fed needs to be measured daily. These diets tend to be higher in fiber which fills them up more without the calories. The treats also should be limited and there are some calorie reduced treats on the market for cats and dogs that are great to use without packing on the pounds.

Exercise can mean something as simple as a walk around the house once to twice daily for the severely overweight dog or a game of paper chase for the cat twice daily. Once these pets start to lose even a few pounds they will begin to be more active on their own and most will have a decreased appetite due to this increase in metabolism and decrease in boredom.

The diet can be set up by your veterinarian and suggestions on safe exercise for your particular pet can be recommended. The single most important thing for the owner to do regularly is to weigh-in the pet. Most owners don't notice the weight loss and tend to give up if it's not obvious. The weigh-ins offer a PAT ON THE BACK for the family for following the diet. It also allows the veterinarian or you to assess if this diet is suitable for your pet in that some pets may still gain and further changes need to be made or that your pet is losing too fast and that we can be less strict about the diet.

Under the direction of your veterinarian, the correct diet, exercise, and regular weigh-ins to motivate you further will help your pet lose weight gradually and safely and live a longer happier life. Your cat or dog will thank you in the long run.