October is Pet Obesity Month
Overweight pets may have difficulty walking, they may move slower, develop shortness of breath, exhibit bad tempers and sleep more than usual.
October is Pet Obesity Month in South Africa, and the World Health Organisation statistics show that 39 per cent of all adults are overweight, with 13 per cent classified as ‘obese’.
With such a high percentage of the human population carrying additional weight through lifestyle choices, it’s no surprise to see that almost half of the pets in South Africa are also classified as being overweight or obese.
Dr Guy Fyvie, nutritional advisor for Hill’s Pet Nutrition in South Africa, said carrying just an extra kilogram or two can have long-term health implications for your pets.
ALSO READ:
“Obesity is the number one cause of health problems in pets in South Africa and around the world today,” he said.
Pets who are overweight live shorter lives and are at higher risk of developing arthritis, urinary conditions, skin problems, heart disease and even cancer, among other diseases.
“If you run your fingers along their side and you can’t easily feel their ribs, or if they have no obvious waist, they are probably carrying too much weight,” says Fyvie.
Overweight pets have also been shown to be less happy, so that ‘snack-time treat’ or generous helping is really doing more harm than good.
The US Association for Pet Obesity Prevention cites a ‘fat gap’ as a key factor in the obesity epidemic: most pet parents can’t – or won’t – believe a veterinarian when they’re told their pet is overweight because they’re not able to identify the signs.
Fyvie added: “The weight gain often takes place gradually and is easy to overlook in the absence of regular check-ups.
“Rather than putting your pet at risk of obesity-related diseases, get a professional, objective opinion.
“A professional assessment is also important in determining the underlying causes of the excess weight – some breeds are more likely to gain weight, the animal’s age can play a role, medical disorders can cause weight gain and feeding habits can also be a factor,” he said.
Pet parents can book a free weight assessment at a participating Pet Slimmer veterinary practice for an evaluation of their pet’s condition – and a suggested course of action if they’re overweight.
A vet will be able to make recommendations that will help ensure they lead more comfortable, healthier lives.”
