Weight Management
A large proportion of our patients are overweight. The assessment of a healthy weight is an integral part of your pet’s physical examination. We weigh your pet at each visit and record it in their medical file. It is very important to keep them at an ideal weight because being overweight can cause other long-term health issues.
Here are a few tips to determine whether your dog is at a healthy weight
Dogs should have a well-defined waist that is distinct from the chest (i.e. “hourglass figure”) when looking at them from above and from the side.
You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs easily with your hands. However, you shouldn’t be able to see them. It’s not normal for your dog to gain weight every year once it has reached adult size.
Are some breeds prone to obesity?
Some breeds are more prone to being overweight because of their gluttonous behaviour and excitement over food, but any dog can become obese. For example, Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Beagles are extremely motivated by food!
Why should my pet have a weight loss consultation at a veterinary clinic?
Getting your dog to lose weight can be very difficult. First of all, your beloved pet has no desire to lose weight! He will manipulate every member of your family with his puppy dog eyes when he wants an extra treat or some table scraps! Let our team assist you in selecting a reputable veterinary pet food that has proven to be effective for weight loss. Simply reducing the portion size of your dog’s usual food to achieve the desired weight loss can result in nutritional deficiencies. We are here to assist you!
How can I tell if my cat is overweight?
It is important for your feline friend to maintain a healthy weight. If you can’t easily see their waist or if it bulges out then your cat is probably overweight. Using a scale at home can help you track your cat’s weight on a regular basis. Domestic cats stop growing at around 12 months, so it is important to maintain a somewhat stable weight at the end of the growth period. Healthy weight varies greatly from cat to cat and our team will be able to advise you on your cat’s healthy weight.
How can I help my cat lose weight?
The key to successful weight loss in cats is their diet. It’s not just a matter of reducing your cat’s food portions but getting food that is especially designed for their weight loss. Even though cats can easily gain weight the reverse isn’t true. You need to be patient and stay strong when faced with felines who repeatedly ask for food several times a day when they have already eaten their portion!
What do you offer during a nutrition consultation?
Our nutrition consultation will determine whether your cat is overweight and then confirm its healthy weight. You will be given a veterinarian recommended diet and the necessary follow-ups scheduled. We can also advise you on the environmental stimulation your feline friend needs to increase its activity level and therefore help with its weight loss!