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5 Reasons Why Pet Obesity is a Big Deal

1/8/2021

11 Comments

 
Posts by: 
Jason Carr, Former Pet Health Network Editor-in-Chief

Some people might look at an overweight pet and say, “oh, how cute.” While it’s true that any pet can be cute, pet obesity is nothing to be fawned over. It’s not healthy and will ultimately lower a pet’s life expectancy. Here are 5 reasons why pet obesity is a big concern. If you think your pet might be overweight, talk with your veterinarian.

1. Pet obesity exacerbates arthritis
Dr. Ernie Ward writes, "The number one medical condition associated with excess weight is osteoarthritis (OA). Both large and small breeds of dogs are typically affected, but cats are developing crippling arthritis at alarming rates. If your pet is carrying as little as one or two extra pounds, remember those pounds are stressing tiny joints not designed to carry extra weight. Making matters worse, fat cells produce harmful chemicals known as adipocytokines that damage even non-weight bearing joints. There is no cure for arthritis; we can only minimize the pain." Learn more about arthritis and pets here >>>
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2. Obese pets have less fun
Dogs love to exercise; it’s in their nature. They weren’t bred to ride the couch. It only takes a little research on the history of breeds to notice that most have hunted and worked with humans for thousands of years. “Dogs are born to work for a living,” says the ASPCA website. “Most are bred for a particular purpose like hunting, herding livestock, or providing protection.”  Knowing this, do you think a dog that has a hard time getting around would be happy? Would you? Check out these fun exercises to do with your dog >>>
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3. Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes
According to Dr. Ruth MacPete, "Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disease influenced by both inherited and environmental factors... However, of all the risk factors, obesity is the most important, especially since the prevalence of obesity is increasing." Learn more about diabetes here >>>
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4. Pet obesity is increasing
Matt Henry writes that according to recent statistics, compiled in the 2013 Banfield State of Pet Health Report, "Pet obesity is increasing at an alarming rate. Drawing on a sizable sample group of 2 million dogs and nearly half a million cats... 37% more dogs and 90% more cats are obese this year compared to five years ago. Read more statistics about the pet-obesity epidemic here >>>
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5. Obesity can increase the risk of high blood pressure
According to Dr. Ernie Ward, "Sometimes we forget our pets get many of the same diseases we do. Hypertension is one of these commonly overlooked conditions in pets. High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because you can’t tell if your pet has it, nor can you see the damage it’s causing -- until it's too late."  Learn more about heart disease in dogs and cats >>>
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If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.
​

Reviewed by: 
Dr. Sarah Tasse, DVM
11 Comments
Kristofer Van Wagner link
4/8/2021 03:34:27 pm

I appreciate that this post pointed out that pet obesity is a serious health issue. My wife and I think that our cat is obese. We will definitely look for veterinary hospitals to have our cat treated.

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12/5/2021 04:45:09 pm

It's nice blog I have really enjoyed keeping up with you on this blog.This is very useful post for everyone. Thank you so much this post.

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2/2/2022 02:14:33 pm

They are very cute and sweet and very gentle too. I have many friends who have cats as their pets. Cats are bubbly and lively too. I also have a cat as my pet and I love her very much.

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11/23/2022 08:53:52 am

Children who don’t have a ton of interaction with real animals as pets or during other activities are still taught to connect to them through different forms of entertainment.

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Mark Henry
3/28/2023 12:54:36 pm

According to PetCareRx, Regularly give your pet a bath with a gentle shampoo made especially for cats or dogs. Work the shampoo into their coat gently with your hands or a soft cloth while using lukewarm (not hot) water. Extra care should be taken around their eyes, and don't forget to clean their tail, undercarriage, and tops of paws. Rinse them out completely with warm water, then pat them dry with a gentle towel.

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4/5/2023 03:26:16 am

As a pet parent, it's important to understand that you play a significant role in your dog's life. Your presence can have a positive impact on your dog's confidence and willingness to try new things. When your dog encounters something unfamiliar or stressful, they will often look to you for guidance and reassurance.

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4/30/2023 07:10:10 am

Which ever one of these adorable guys or girls you choose, your son will have a new best friend. Your family will also have a very loyal and loving pet to take care of him and he will have a loving and loyal family to take care of for himself. Best wishes with the puppy transition.

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5/7/2023 03:12:51 am

By being a calm and reassuring presence, you can help your dog feel safe and secure in new situations. This can encourage your dog to explore their surroundings and engage with new experiences. Additionally, your dog may also look to you for cues on how to react to certain stimuli, such as other dogs or people.

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5/9/2023 02:26:44 am

Just like humans, pets can be at risk for sunburn and skin damage from prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays. This is particularly true for pets with light-colored hair, short haircuts, and those with thinning hair due to age or other medical conditions.


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5/16/2023 03:17:52 pm

Reputable breeders will conduct health checks on their breeding cats to screen for any genetic or hereditary conditions. They should be able to provide you with documentation of these health screenings, as well as vaccination records and any other necessary paperwork.

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Wendy Ramos
5/25/2023 09:05:08 am

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