Weight Management for Pets

Tailored attention for underweight, overweight, or obese cats and dogs.

Weight is always a sensitive topic, but at our hospital, we’ve created a judgment-free environment where we can work together to help your cat or dog reach their ideal weight. The risks associated with obesity and being overweight are serious. Weight management will improve your pet's health and ensure they enjoy more healthy and happy days with you.

How do I know if my cat or dog is overweight?

When your cat is overweight, they may develop a bulge in their abdomen that can swing when they move, and their waist usually becomes wider. In dogs, fat will be seen over the hips and the waist will no longer be visible. Another important point is to feel the ribs. However, certain breeds and species will carry their weight differently, so it may not be that easy to identify. To be absolutely certain, have your veterinarian examine them. Based on their age, breed, health status, and lifestyle, our veterinarian can determine what is a healthy weight for your feline or canine pal.

What health issues are associated with a dog or cat being overweight?

Being overweight or obese isn’t healthy for your cat or dog because it can put stress on their organs and lead to certain fatal diseases. Here are some health problems commonly seen in overweight cats and dogs:

  1. High blood pressure
  2. Arthritis
  3. Heart disease
  4. Urinary bladder disease
  5. Diabetes in cats

Before your loyal companion develops these illnesses, they need to be on a weight management plan. To get ahead of these diseases, please contact us at 705-885-7387.

What will weight management include for dogs and cats?

Although losing excess weight is necessary, it is extremely important that weight management is done in a healthy way. This means that you should always consult with a veterinarian before you attempt to make your cat or dog lose weight. Losing weight too fast is usually not the best and healthiest way to do it. Your veterinarian will recommend the following lifestyle and dietary changes:

  • Setting meal times and amounts so food isn’t always available for them to eat
  • Reducing their treats
  • Adding daily exercises to their routine
  • Using dietary foods, some of which are stocked at our in-house pharmacy and online store
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