In the last few years, cats and dogs have been becoming increasingly fat, and veterinarians and animal care takers are concerned over the implications of these overweight pets.

The rise in popularity of weight reduction pet foods and tipping scales are clear indicators that cats and dogs, like people, are adding to their waistlines. Overweight and grossly obese pets top the list as one of the top problems veterinarians face on a regular basis.

What is causing all of these obese cats and dogs? It boils down to two common denominators: too much food and too little exercise.

Food: Too Much of a Good Thing

As cats and dogs have moved inside, their place at the dinner table (sometimes literally) has been cemented. They receive a plethora of food: their dinner, snacks, and table scraps.

As humans, we often equate love with food, and unfortunately, too many pets are eagerly taking the bait. Just because a cat or dog eats doesn't mean it's hungry or that it needs it.

Another issue is the serving size of dinner. Each bag of pet food gives an approximate serving size, but these are generalizations, and many cats and dogs do not need as much food as the bag indicates. Consulting with a pet's veterinarian on serving size can help get to a more realistic portion size.

Exercise: Not Enough

People have transitioned into a more sedentary lifestyle with the computer and television replacing many of the outdoor activities that were once enjoyed. As our lifestyles have transitioned, our pets' activities have too.

All dogs should receive daily exercise outdoors in the form of walks, swimming, jogging, or some other compatible exercise routine. Cats should be encouraged to play with indoor toys, run up and down stairs, or climb ceiling-height towers.

Unfortunately, dogs and cats are not receiving the amount of exercise that is needed to keep them fit and trim.

What Does All The Fat Mean?

The implication is quite simple: it is affecting a beloved pet's health in a detrimental manner. It might start out innocently enough with just an extra pound or two but to put it into perspective, an extra pound or two on a dog or cat is more like fifteen on a human.

Extra weight has terrible effects on a cat or dog's health and lifespan. Fat applies unnecessary pressure on vital organs. It puts tremendous strain on joints causing early breakdown and arthritis. Many diseases, like diabetes and heart disease, are also directly linked to obesity.

Being overweight also takes some of the joy out of a pet's life. They are not able to walk, run, or play as much as they might like. Many are relegated to being a couch potato, whether they want to or not.

Develop a Plan

The best choice is prevention by providing a high quality food in appropriate amounts coupled with exercise. In the event a pet is already overweight, caution should be exercised in weight reduction.

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