Too Much Food
Over eating is the main reason why our pets become overweight. As with people, when a pet consumes more calories than it uses, its body stores those excess calories as fat. The more fat that accumulates, the heavier your pet becomes.
Too Little Exercise
The amount of exercise or activity your pet gets makes a big difference to how much he or she weighs. Less activity means a greater risk of becoming overweight.
Breed
- Dogs: certain dog breeds are more likely to put on weight than others. Dogs that are genetically prone to gain weight easily include: Labrador Retrievers, Cairn Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, long-haired Dachshunds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Basset Hounds and Beagles7
- Cats: mixed-breed cats, rather than pure breed, have a greater tendency to put on extra weight and become obese7
A fit pet is a happy pet!
A fit pet is healthy - and happy. Being the ideal weight allows your pet to move around without difficulty, and get much more out of life. Slim pets are far less likely to suffer from weight related illnessess like:7
- heart disease
- diabetes
- arthritis and joint problems
- high blood pressure
- skin problems
Whatever the cause of your pet's weight gain, it is always advisable to seek the advice and support of your veterinarian.