More and more domestic animals are becoming obese. It is estimated that 20% to 25% of cats are overweight, while dogs are between 25% and 30%. This article will discuss and explain important aspects of the most common nutritional health status in today's pets.

Obesity is defined as the accumulation of excess fat in the body. An animal is usually classified as obese if it weighs more than 20% of its ideal body weight. This is unnatural, and in fact wild cats or dogs are very rare.

Extremely overweight can cause many health problems in animals and, in some cases, may shorten the length and quality of life. Heart disease can occur due to stress in the heart and circulatory system. Your pet may experience increased shortness of breath, low exercise tolerance, and increased risk of chest complications such as bronchitis. In addition, applying extra stress to your limbs, joints and spine can increase your chances of developing arthritis, rheumatism or back problems. Worryingly, obese cats or dogs are at greater risk of anesthesia and surgery.

The usual situation is that many people don't even realize that their pets are overweight until the veterinarian informs them. So what are the signs that your partner may be overweight? The most accurate way to tell if your cat or dog is overweight is to take them to the vet. Here, they will weigh on the electronic scale, and the vet or their staff can discuss your pet's weight problems and any concerns you may have. If you want to check it yourself, stand on your animal to see if there is a noticeable waistline. Also, if you can pinch an inch or more of fat or more on the ribs, your pet is likely to be overweight. Other common signs include: drowsiness, excessive gasping and reluctance to exercise.

The main cause of pet obesity is lack of exercise and excessive eating. If the calories burned do not exceed the calories burned, they will be stored as fat. Older age is also due to the older the pet, the weight gain, and the slower the metabolic rate. The slower the metabolism; the fewer calories an animal needs. Usually older people are fed the same amount as younger ones, resulting in fat accumulation.

If your cat or dog is indeed diagnosed as obese, the veterinarian will check for medical reasons. If not, and related to diet, then you will be told that your partner's weight loss program involves changes in the quantity and quality of the diet. It is also possible to recommend an increase in the physical exertion plan.

Please note that this article is for reference only. If you have concerns or concerns about your pet, please contact your veterinarian.

Go to our website now and get your pet quote on our website as shown below. For each online quote, we donated 50 pence to our million-pound challenge, with the goal of donating £1 million to animal welfare charities by the end of 2012.

Pets and obesity was originally published on Spring