New Year New Diet

Just as many of us start out the New Year with plans to shed those extra pounds, some of our pets could also benefit from a new weight loss plan.

Is my pet overweight?

It is not always easy to tell if your pet is too heavy. However, by performimg the following simple checks, you should be able to get a good idea.

• can you see a waistline?
• can you feel the ribs easily?
• how mobile is your pet?
• does your pet get out of breath easily?

If you are unsure if your pet is overweight or not, or for a free weight check-up, please arrange an appointment with our Clinic Nurse, who will be able to assess your pet and advise you on your pets ideal weight.

My pet needs to lose weight – what do I do?

Depending on the amount of weight that needs to be lost, plus your pet’s lifestyle and current diet, there are a number of options available to you.

Simply cutting out high-calorie titbits will often go a long way. Where you would still like to give your pet a reward, opt instead for low-calorie, low-cost veg – raw or plainly cooked carrot, cauliflower or broccoli. Plain rawhide chews are also a good low-calorie alternative and also help to keep your pet entertained.

However, for some pets a complete change of food to a Veterinary Prescription Diet will be the answer.

How can I increase my dog’s exercise?

The Clinic Nurse will be able to advise you on the correct amount of exercise your dog requires every day. Shorter more frequent walks are usually more beneficial for slimming pets as this helps to gradually build up their fitness levels. Alternative ideas for adding extra exercise into your dog’s day are -

• walking at a faster pace and incorporating a more strenuous route
• use interactive toys such as Kongs and Buster Cubes at meal times
• consider a course of hydrotherapy – 5 minutes in the pool is equivalent to a 4 mile walk!

How can I increase my cat’s exercise?

Cats can provide quite a challenge in terms of exercise plans! Simply putting your cat out several times a day will certainly increase activity levels. Other suggestions include -

• hide the food around the house, including up on window sills
• catnip toys, ping pong balls and a light shone against a wall will provide entertainment
• use feeding balls at meal times

We provide a completely free of charge slimming service to any overweight pet – our experienced Clinic Nurses are available to assess your pet and will devise an individual weight loss and exercise plan. Regular weigh-ins are very important as adjustments to the diet may be required.

By enrolling on our Pet Slimming programme, you are helping your pet live a healthier, and hopefully, longer life.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 at 5:39 pm and is saved under Uncategorized