Just like us, pets can fall short of managing their weight. One of the main reasons for obesity in our pets is overfeeding. That’s where Maple Valley veterinarians come in to help pet owners manage their pets’ weight and prevent obesity. Veterinarian in Maple Valley, WA are instrumental in guiding weight management efforts and obesity prevention in pets.
Obesity is a Growing Concern in American Pets
Pet obesity is ubiquitous; according to studies, a high percentage of pets in the U.S. and Canada are overweight or obese. Over 50% of dogs and cats in North America are defined as being overweight, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. In Maple Valley and other locations, veterinarians are encountering greater numbers of pets with weight-related problems. It is generally caused by overfeeding, insufficient amounts of exercise, and bad diets.
Obesity can have a serious toll on your pet’s well-being, resulting in joint conditions such as arthritis, an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, and a lower quality of life. Sadly, with the help of veterinarians, many of the aforementioned issues can be avoided/mitigated with good diet control and early treatment.
What Veterinarians Can Do to Help with Weight Management?
Evaluating Your Pet’s Current Weight and Condition
The first step in successfully managing your pet’s weight is to accurately assess their current state of health. Veterinarians perform comprehensive physical examinations to assess your pet’s overall health, including their weight, body condition score (BCS), and other potential health issues that may lead to obesity. Your veterinarian will also look for signs of metabolic disorders during this assessment that can also lead to weight gain, such as hypothyroidism.
Veterinary clinics in Maple Valley employ a specific measurement as well as a visual system for evaluating pet body condition. The BCS arranges pets into several weight ranges, from underweight to obese, allowing the resident Pet Health Advisor to take a closer look at the condition of your pet, and what needs to be done to help your pet achieve a healthy weight.
Developing a Tailored Nutrition Approach
Diet is also key to managing weight. Veterinarians create diet plans for your pet, which is one of their most important services. Your veterinarian will recommend a balanced diet that meets your pet’s nutritional needs according to their breed, age, size, and activity level and helps them lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Maple Valley veterinarians might recommend weight-loss foods that are high-quality and portion-controlled, such as low-calorie or high-fiber commercial pet foods. They will also offer advice on feeding schedules, portion sizes, and how to measure food to ensure you’re not overfeeding. In addition, some overweight or obese pets may be placed on specialized food formulations for weight management that can promote satiety and aid digestion.
Introducing an exercise routine
Exercise is also another important aspect of weight management. So vets help pet owners devise an appropriate exercise regimen tailored to their pet’s age, breed, and health status. Regular exercise burns calories; helps to improve muscle getting leaner; and is used for those who improve fitness.
In Maple Valley, veterinarians prescribe outdoor walks, runs, or play dates in nearby parks. They also might recommend interactive toys or games to keep pets active inside. For older or arthritic pets, veterinarians may recommend low-impact activities such as swimming or light stretching exercises to promote mobility and fitness without exacerbating joint stress.
Following a custom diet, exercising regularly, and treating any underlying medical problems in cooperation with your veterinarian can help support your pet’s overall health and help them live a long and happy life. If you’re worried about your pet’s weight — don’t wait, make that appointment with your community veterinarian today and embark on the road to a healthier future for your furry loved one.
