We all know that carrying extra weight isn’t good for our health. But did you know that the same is true for your pets? Just like humans, pets who are obese are more susceptible to a host of health problems, including diabetes, joint pain, and respiratory issues. Startlingly, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention reports that an overwhelming majority of pets in the United States are overweight or obese. In particular, 60% of cats and 55% of dogs suffer from these problems.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure your pets stay at a healthy weight. Here are just a few of the ways that keeping your pet slim can help them stay healthy and happy.
1. Reduces the risk of health problems.
As we mentioned before, one of the main reasons to keep your pet at a healthy weight is to reduce their risk of developing obesity-related health problems. When pets are carrying around extra weight, they’re putting strain on their organs, joints, and bones—all of which can lead to serious complications down the road. By keeping your pet at a healthy weight, you can help them avoid these health problems altogether.
2. Increases energy and stamina.
Pets who are carrying around extra weight often lack the energy they need to live a happy, active life. If your dog is overweight, for example, they may not be able to run and play as much as they want—which is likely one of their favorite things to do! Keeping your pet at a healthy weight will give them the energy they need to live their best life.
Even our feline friends need opportunities to keep activity levels at a level that helps them maintain a healthy weight.
3. Lowers veterinary costs.
Pets who are obese also tend to have more veterinary bills than those who are at a healthy weight. That’s because they’re more likely to develop obesity-related health problems—which means more trips to the vet (and more money out of your pocket). So not only is keeping your pet slim good for their health—it’s also good for your wallet!
4. Improves quality of life.
Perhaps most importantly, keeping your pet at a healthy weight will improve their quality of life overall. When pets are carrying around extra weight, they often don’t feel their best—which can have a negative impact on their happiness levels. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can help your pet feel happier and healthier—which is something we all want for our furry friends!
As you can see, there are many benefits to keeping your pet at a healthy weight. So if you think your furry friend may be carrying around a few too many pounds, make an appointment with our Minnesota Veterinary Hospital team. Together, we can come up with a plan to help get your pet back on track—and make sure they’re living their best life possible!
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