How to Treat Your Overweight Pet

Pets can contribute to our health and happiness, helping us to live longer and to have a better quality of life. In return, we are responsible for their health. Yet, according to a study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention in 2009 found that we're failing at that: More than 58 percent of cats and 45 percent of dogs are overweight or obese.

If your pooch is packing on the pounds, it's your responsibility to take action to ensure your pet's health. Here are a few ways you can deal with an overweight pet to help restore health:

Get a Check-Up

You need to start by assessing your pet's health, including his weight. Your vet can tell you if your pet is indeed overweight, and by how much. Your vet can then evaluate your pet to find out if there is an underlying health condition causing the weight problem. You can then treat the condition or get tailored advice on how to treat the weight problem.

Cut Out Treats

You may like to show your affection or appreciation for good behavior by slipping your pet some tasty treats or table scraps. However, these add to your pet's burgeoning waist line. It's time to cut them out. Completely.

Consider treats like snacking. If you were to snack too much, you'd gain weight. So will your pet. Cut out treats and stick to a healthy diet instead.

Choose a Diet Pet Food

There are many specially formulated blends of pet food that can help your pet eat a healthier diet. These foods are restricted in calories, fat and sugars. By making this simple switch, you can start to help your pet reduce calories and shed pounds.

Practice Portion Control

Even diet food can make you fat if you eat too much of it. Make sure you monitor your pet's portions in order to see the best results. Scoop out only the recommended amount (get advice from your vet), and ensure that your pet only has access to the food at certain times. (In other words, don't put the bowl out for your pet to graze all day.)

Start an Exercise Program

No, you don't need to take your pet to the gym. But you should take your dog for more walks. And you should engage your cat in more vigorous playtime, such as chase. Whatever activity you can get your pet to do, you should do. Start small if you need to, and build upon that foundation as your pet becomes healthier.

Your pet relies on you to care for his health -- and, in return, he makes you a happier and healthier person. If your pet is overweight, take these steps to get him back on track to a healthy lifestyle.

About the Author:
Alexis Bonari writes for one of the largest open databases of college funding opportunities. Specific topics like cosmetology school scholarships are described in detail to provide multiple resources for students.