Over and Underweight Pets
There’s a fairly good chance that you are or have tracked your own weight to help ensure your well-being and health. What about your pets? Sometimes, owners let their cats, dogs, and other animals gain or lose weight as they please. This, however, can result in a lot of unnecessary health problems. While you might have a good idea of what a healthy diet looks like for humans, you might not know what that looks like for cats and dogs. The good news is that if you live in or near Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, you can visit us at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital. By searching for a “veterinarian near me” at an “animal hospital near me,” you can work with a vet on our team who will strive to ensure that your pet enjoys a good diet and a healthy weight.
The Risks for Overweight Pets
Overweight pets can suffer many of the conditions common in overweight people. This can include joint and muscle pain, cardiovascular diseases, sensitivity to heat, and reduced stamina. Your pet might also be more likely to get injured if he or she falls or suffers another accident.
Diet is one of the most crucial factors for determining if a pet will end up being overweight. Some animals will eat compulsively, so if an unlimited food supply is available, they eat and eat and eat. The type of food consumed can also impact their weight. If you give them lots of treats or rich human foods, they may quickly pack on pounds.
Exercise can help cats, dogs, and other pets keep off pounds. That said, if the exercise isn’t combined with diet control and proper nutrition, your companion may fail to lose significant amounts of weight.
The Risks for Underweight Pets
Underweight pets can suffer from many serious health issues as well. First, they may be more prone to vitamin deficiencies, which could lead to weak bones, poor fur health, bad vision, and a weak immune system, among other things. They could suffer issues with their kidneys and other organs. Your pet will also likely be lethargic and irritable. They may try to steal human food too. If your pet spends time outdoors, he may struggle to stay warm if he is underweight. This could lead to serious problems come the winter.
Get Pet Care and Pet Nutrition Advice from a Veterinarian at Our Animal Hospital
If you are looking for an “animal hospital near me” and you live near Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, contact a “veterinarian near me” at the Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital. Call us at (604) 536-3131 .
