How do you know if your cat or dog is overweight?
Fido or Kitty may look in tip-top shape to you, but this may not really be the case.
Here is a simple way to find out:
1) Stand behind your pet and look down along the back. There should be a distinct narrowing in the "waist" area.
2) Now use your fingertips to feel along the spine. It should be easy to detect without having to push down through a layer of fat.
If there is no waist line or apparent spine, your pet probably needs to trim down a little.
Weight management for pets is not difficult and you'll be doing them a great service by keeping them healthy.
Three Steps to a Slimmer Pet:
First - make sure you are feeding your pet the best natural food you can afford. It doesn't need to be "diet" pet food, the regular kind is fine. Study the feeding instructions for the recommended daily amount for your pet and then cut it back by a third.
Second - figure out a way to give your pet a little more excercise. If you rarely walk your dog, now is the time to start. If you're already walking your dog daily, just increase the time a little. It's good for you as well!
Cats are not particularly prone to enjoying walks on a leash, but you can still help them get some action by playing "cat" games with them. Turn on a small flashlight and laugh as your kitty chases the light around the room, or purchase one of the many cat toys from your local pet store.
Share these ideas with your vet and contact us for more weight management tips.
