Weight Management in Pets

A common problem found in most species is weight issues, but promoting a healthy lifestyle can be simple through a few basic steps.

• A visit to the veterinarian's office can rule out other underlying medical issues such as medications, hormonal imbalances, and emotional factors.

• Buying a scale and recording weekly weigh-ins will make pet weight more apparent.

• For a pet in need of losing weight, feed the pet smaller meals but more often. This will be easier on the digestive system as well keep hunger at bay and limit the chance of overeating at mealtime. This may also help to jump-start the metabolism and better utilizes calorie intake. Serving a hydrated kibble will make the pet feel fuller and again make it easier to eat smaller meals satisfyingly. Simply soak the kibble in hot water for about ten minutes, allowing the kibble to swell and absorb water.

• Cut back on treats and all table scraps. Introduce healthy treats into the pet's diet such as carrots or celery.

• Ease a pet into a activity routine by slowly taking short walks with the pet, about 5 minutes in length, 3 to 4 times a day. This will work for elderly, injured, arthritic and seriously overweight pets as well. Once stamina is built up by the pet, increasing the amount of walking by 1 or 2 minutes on a weekly basis is appropriate. For some pets, swimming is another option for exercise, especially if the pet is injured, elderly or seriously overweight.

• For pets that do not accept going outsidefor walks, increase the amount of time one plays with the pet. Play time with the pet helps to burn calories and increases the stamina and activity level.

• Supplements and vitamins may be necessary if the pet is restricted to less food, also meaning less nutrition and vitamins. A daily multivitamin designed for pets will help prevent deficiencies, add energy and make the pet continue feeling well.

• After pondering over food intake amounts, one should consider what the pet is actually eating. Of the hundreds of food productsout there and many of them low-calorie products, as well as raw foods or making your own pet food, the pet's veterinarian knows your pet and its medical history the best and should be discussed with him or her before making choicesfor theideal nutrition for one's pet.

• Things to consider when planning exercise for one's pet must also include weather - is it hazardous for my pet to be out either in freezing slippery conditions or risking heat stroke in the sizzling heat? Of course not. Age must be thought about as well since young dogs are active and can run the risk of overdoing it and hurting themselves on hard surfaces. Elderly animals may want to please their owner at the risk of exhaustion, so, starting out slow and short is the best option here.

• Animal furniture creates an inviting area to play and be curious for many pets, introducing activity without being exercise.

• One last option that can be considered is relatively new--medication for weight loss in animals. Approved by the FDA in 2007 for the use in obese dogs, Slentrol works by blocking the assembly and release of fats into the bloodstream for removal by the body. It is given orally or placed into the dog's food for consumption.

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