A few treats here and there may feel like you’re doing something nice for your fur baby, but keep in mind even 50 calories extra can be a lot for a little body. Even as our pets age, their dietary needs can change, especially if they become less active, meaning weight gain can become a problem fast. An overweight dog or cat faces the risk of a shorter life and chronic conditions, so it’s something you want to keep in check.
If you suspect your pet may be stacking on the kilograms, this guide will help you know for sure and help you get them back to a healthy weight. These are the top signs your dog or cat is overweight, and what to do about it. A visit to the vet is always useful for more personalised advice, if needed.
What is a healthy weight for my dog?
There is no single ideal weight for a dog as it differs between size, breeds and age. For example, the perfect weight for a small or toy breed, like a chihuahua or French bulldog, may range from 5 to 11kg, while a large dog breed, like a great dane, may ideally need to weigh over 45kg.
When a dog is an ideal weight, you should be able to feel their ribs under a small layer of fat, with a slight definition in their waistline if you look down at them from above. The best way to know your dog’s healthiest weight is by seeing your vet.
What are signs my dog is overweight?
Checking if your dog is overweight is quite easy if you know what to look for. Some of the most common signs your dog is overweight include:
- Not being able to feel their ribs if you gently press their sides.
- Their waist is straight or bulging when viewed from the top.
- They walk slower or have more difficulty moving that’s not related to age or a chronic illness.
- They get tired quickly when they play or exercise.
It’s important to note some of these signs can be symptoms of other conditions or problems, so having a vet check your dog and give you guidance is always a good idea.
How to Help Your Dog Lose Weight
So, you’ve discovered your pooch is holding onto some extra weight? With a few easy changes, you can help them lose weight, including monitoring what they eat, making sure they get enough exercise and more.
Be cautious of dog treats.
Dog treats can have anywhere from 5 to 600+ calories. A few handfuls of their favourite snacks a day can quickly add up, especially if they’re eating their full meals on top and not as active.
If you do want to give your dog treats, make sure they only make up around 10% of their daily calorie needs, which you can confirm with your vet. It may even be better to skip the treats all together for a little while.
Feed them the correct amount of food.
Most dog foods will give you guidelines of how much to feed your dog based on their weight. Keep in mind, this doesn’t take into account any additional snacks. If your dog is snack-free and eating the recommended amount but still gaining or not losing weight, try reducing the amount of food by 10% to 15% and monitor their progress.
Vets can also prescribe dogs specific diet foods to help make feeding a little easier. It’s important to follow their recommendations, and always make sure they have enough clean water around.
Extend walks or play time.
As well as watching what your dog is putting into their body, you can help them lose weight by increasing their activity levels and how many calories they are burning. Adding a little extra time to their normal daily walk, even by 10 minutes, can help them shift some pudge.
Alternatively, you can add more playtime to their day. An extra game of fetch in the backyard or taking them with you when you’re out and about can give them that little extra exercise they need.
Try puzzle feeders.
Does your dog wolf down their food and instantly start looking for more? Interactive food bowls and mats, like puzzle feeders, can help slow down your dog as they eat, making them feel more satisfied, and fuller for longer.
Even if you do give your pup a few treats, giving them their snack in a KONG-style treat ball can help them burn off some extra energy, plus help them savor their snack for longer. This can be great for getting snack-driven dogs up and moving around if they’re getting a little lazy.
How to tell if my cat is overweight?
It’s estimated around 32% of cats in Australia are overweight, which can increase your cat’s risk of chronic disease. Most cats need an ideal weight of around 3.6kg to 4.5kg, however, some cats are built smaller or bigger, so this is not a hard rule.
If your cat is a healthy weight, you should just be able to feel their ribs when touched, but they should not be visible. They should also have a slight tuck at their waist and abdomen with minimal fat padding around the belly. However, it’s always best to let your vet confirm.
Signs of an overweight cat:
Some of the most common signs of an overweight cat include:
- No visible waist when you look down at them from above.
- You have to press firmly to feel their ribs, if they can be felt at all.
- They have a heavy, round belly that does not swing much as they walk.
- They are more hesitant to run, jump or climb.
- They are unable to clean themselves in some places.
Like dogs, some symptoms, like hesitancy in movement, can indicate other problems, so it’s always best to book a visit to your local vet.
