What contributes to a pet becoming obese? The reasons vary. Sometimes it’s as simple as a lack of exercise and too much food. Age can play a role, too. As pets get older, their energy levels drop, and that often coincides with a tendency to exercise less. And pets who’ve been spayed or neutered gain weight faster than pets who haven’t been sterilized.

Regardless of the reasons behind your pet’s weight problem, there are several steps you can take to help your fluffy friend get back into his or her skinny collar, including:

• Measuring your pet’s food to make sure you’re not overfeeding
• Placing food in toys that require interaction with your dog or cat to receive a food reward
• Hiding kibble around the house so that your cat must hunt for food, or put it high on a kitty tree
• Spreading meals out throughout the day (note: make sure the total amount fed for the day is the correct amount)
• Playing with your cat or dog using love and attention, not treats
• Getting health conditions under control. Some illnesses, like hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease, can cause weight gain in pets. It’s important for you to work closely with your veterinarian to manage these medical issues.

If you have an overweight doggo, you might consider booking them an appointment with our canine rehabilitation team . Our rehabilitation services combine exercise with other techniques and technologies like laser therapy, acupuncture, and nutrition consultation, to get your pet back in shape. And rehab is very effective at treating joint and mobility issues associated with obesity.

Sometimes exercise and portion control don’t quite do the trick. In that case, it’s probably time to go with a special diet. Our nutrition experts recommend Purina OM Weight Management Food , whose low-calorie and high-protein formula works naturally with your pet’s digestive system to help them lose weight and stay full between feedings.

Our staff is more than happy to assist you in weight management for your pet and answer any questions you have about feeding and exercise. Just call us at (970) 674-5105 today!