Overweight in dogs and cats
It's a regularly recurring topic: pet overweight. The number of pets that are (far) too heavy is still increasing. The percentage of dogs and cats suffering from mild to severe overweight is estimated to be 35%. However, according to some sources, this rate is up to 60%! Intervening in their lifestyles in time is necessary, otherwise they will be waiting for all kinds of conditions. Obesity also affects pets. In dogs and cats, among others, the disease increases the risk of diabetes and joint problems. Obese dogs live on average 2.5 years less long, cats reduce lifespan by 1.9 years. 'Obesity is much more than a beauty problem'. It is a disease that can cause numerous conditions. As soon as the animals lose weight, complaints also decrease.’

When is my dog or cat overweight?

Too many treats and pampering, little exercise, illness or predisposition, it can cause it all. Usually the pets don't seem to be bothered by the extra pounds, but still it is important to be attentive to this. Because overweight can not only interfere with freedom of movement, in the long run it increases the risk of joint problems and all kinds of conditions, including cardiovascular disease.

Recognizing Overweight

It's not always easy to establish self-overweight in your own pet. After all, overweight arises gradually, so that a owner who sees his pet every day does not quickly notice that his animal has developed overweight. You can also recognize excess weight from certain behavioral changes, such as bad mood, laziness, a lot of sleep, difficulty walking, decreased endurance or reduced heat tolerance (quick panting in warm environment).

You can recognize when a dog or cat is overweight on the website of Animal Hospital Rotterdam. The body condition score below shows what a dog or cat with an ideal body weight looks like.


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