Whats Your Pets New Years Resolution?

Whats your Pets New Years Resolution?

Now that the holidays have passed and we have rang in the New Year, many of us have declared a New Years Resolution. And for many of us that New Years Resolution is to loose weight and be healthier. But what about our pets? If your dog or cat is chunkier then they should be maybe you should include them in your New Years Resolution to be fit as well. 

An alarming 58% of cats and 54% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese.  We all love our pets and they look so cute begging for table scraps or meowing for extra treats but we are killing them with kindness?  Much like humans carrying around extra weight is not healthy for them. Here is a list of a few of the negative effects extra weight can cause. 

*It can be painful. Muscle and joint pain make it harder for your pet to get around and increases risk of osteoarthritis.

*It can compromise the respiratory system. Causing your pet to have a harder time breathing

*Increases surgical and anesthetic risks

*Increases risks of disease, such as heart disease, hypertension, Diabetes, liver disease, etc

*Deceases the immune system making them more prone to sicknesses

*Increases risks of cancer

For starters be sure that you are accurately measuring the amount of food your pet should have in a day.  Which depends on many things. The size and breed of your pet, the type of food you are feeding and if there are any extras like treats or food toppers. Most foods have a weight recommended chart on the back of the bag to help you determine the amount of food that should be given in a day. However it is always a good idea to speak to your Veterinarian about specifics.

 If your pet is over weight you may want to consider eliminating treats or choosing a low calorie option instead.  Many veggies are OK for your pets to eat and can be given as treats such as carrots or green beans. They can even be frozen and be given as a cool treat in the hot summer months.

Exercise is very important too, if your pet is able to of course. Going for an extra walk, playing catch in the back yard or going to the dog park are great activities for your dog. It is however, little more tricky to get your cat to exercise but it can be done. Playing with your cat with toys or a laser pointer can be great kitty exercise. Feeding your cat in an area that they have to go up or down stairs or placing their meal in multiple areas can get them moving more.  Supplying cat trees and other cat safe furniture is another great idea. 

Treat balls are a fantastic idea for both cats and dogs. Using a low calorie treat or even part of your pets regular kibble. A treat ball will slowly dispense 1 or 2 treats at time after its batted around a bit. Which will encourage play and exercise. 

Of course Regular vet visits are very important for your pet to keep them in tip top health. Your Veterinarian will be able to suggest appropriate food options and amounts as well as exercise suggestions catered to your specifics pets needs.

Its a New Year, and setting a New Years Resolution can be a great motivator for people to get fit. But don't forget your pet if they are overweight also.  Its a New Year, a Fresh Start, and time for a happier healthier you and a happier healthier pet!