When pets are overweight, they face the same health risks as us humans. The weight can silently creep up on your pet without you noticing until it is too late. There are certain weight loss strategies to help your pet get back to a healthy weight. If your pet is consuming more calories that is needed, the fat will start to accumulate. Lack of exercise will make it even worse. In some cases, the breed of the pet such as pugs have a higher risk of being obese. Find out how you can get your overweight pets to shed the fat.

Finding the Reason for Weight Gain in Pets

The first thing that you should do before trying weight loss strategies for your pet is to bring him to the vet. It can be risky if cats are placed on a strict diet before consulting a professorial veterinarian. Your vet will do the necessary evaluations to rule out the possibility of certain health issues such as thyroid, heart disease or other critical disorders. As soon as any health issues are addressed, you can then move on to working with your pet to reduce the excess weight.

Pet Weight-loss Strategies

Limit the amount of food that you give your pet. Find a good pet weight reduction formula to speed up your pet’s weight loss. There are also specially made pet food such as weight control dog or cat food. Knowing the weight of your pet before going on a weight loss plan, will help you keep track of your pet’s weight loss progress. Use a digital pet scale to weigh your pet frequently. It is recommended that your pet lose at least three to five percent of body weight each month.

Exercise for Your Pet

Exercise should also be included in your pet’s weight loss plans as well. Begin exercising with your pet in short sessions at first. Slowly increase the length of the exercise sessions as soon as your pet gets accustomed to the exercise routine. Over a period of time as your pet lose weight, the fat will be replaced by muscles. Dogs can benefit from swimming , which is beneficial for both dogs that are obese and those that suffer from arthritis. Keeping your pet at a healthy weight will help him live a happy fulfilling life, years to come.