With over 68% of Americans being overweight and childhood obesity on the rise too, is it any wonder that having an obese pet has become the new normal? While there are numerous theories as to the rise of obesity in pets, the figures don’t lie! Over 50% of both dogs and cars are overweight in this country. And the obesity problem isn’t limited to the four legged pets either. Pet birds are limited in activity simply because they are caged.  Therefore, obesity in pet birds has become a problem as well.

So what is the answer to this growing problem?  Simple answers don’t apply here. Less activity by adults and children leads to less activity in pets. Our pets rely on us to stimulate and exercise them.  Cats can entertain themselves more so than dogs, but with the percentage of obese cats rivaling that of our canine friends, this is a problem that the humans in this equation must address.

The consequences of pet obesity often mirror that of the consequences in humans. Diabetes, heart issues, breathing problems, joint pain, etc. are all direct results of increasing weight gain in humans and our pets. Diet and exercise are the key! Treats are a big source of added calories too! The last link below provides a good source of the amount of calories needed on a daily basis for a lot of common breeds of pets. This graphic also provides the caloric intake of many common treats. So make sure you talk to your pets’ vets about the correct diet for your pets. Veterinarians can also prescribe an exercise regiment for your pets.

Let’s all make 2015 the year both you and your pets fight the obesity epidemic we are battling in this country! Make a promise to both yourself and your pets to get your health concerns addressed and find a game plan that safely works for all of you!

See the resource links below for more important information on this topic:

https://www.dosomething.org/facts/11-facts-about-pet-obesity

http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/03/living/overweight-pets/

http://www.petobesityprevention.org/pet-obesity-fact-risks/

http://www.petobesityprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Pet_Weights_and_Treat_Caloric_Content.pdf