Overweight Dogs and Cats Becoming a Common Health Concern

According to a recent study, over half of U.S. dogs and cats are overweight. Like people, pet obesity can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, high-fat diets, overeating and lack of exercise. Underlying health problems, such as hypothyroidism, can also lead to weight gain.

While gaining a few pounds ma not make a lot of difference to your body, for a cat or dog with a comparatively smaller body, a few pounds can add a lot of stress to bones and organs. Those excess pounds can even shorten your pet’s life. Common health problems associated with obesity include: lameness and arthritis, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, exercise intolerance and overheating, increased anesthetic and surgical risks, and reduced life span.

Fortunately, veterinary medicine has made a number of medical and therapeutic advances in treating obesity in dogs and cats. Special diets and medications are now available to help solve obesity problems. If your pet is suffering from obesity, call and make an appointment with Stafford Veterinary Clinic today so we can work together at getting your pet back to a healthy and long life.