Weight Management for Pets

Your pet’s weight is oftentimes closely connected to their overall health status. Your pet is much more than their weight, but being on the healthier side is the best way to go. Whether your forever companion is underweight or overweight our team will create a dietary plan that matches their lifestyle in order to get them to a healthy weight. If you have concerns about your cat or dog's weight do not hesitate to contact us at 250-765-2916.

How does weight affect my pet’s health?

An overweight or obese pet is at a higher risk for health issues, as excess fat makes it harder for their organs and systems to function properly. This can not only affect your pet’s quality of life but also reduce their lifespan. Pets with weight struggles are often diagnosed with conditions such as:

1. Arthritis
2. Cancer
3. Diabetes
4. Heart disease
5. High blood pressure

How can I tell if my pet is overweight?

Here are some ways you can tell if your pet is overweight:

• You can’t feel their ribs anymore
• Loss of discernible waist
• Pads of fat over hips and base of tail
• Waddles when walking
• Finds it difficult to move
• Short of breath
• Bad tempered

How can I get my pet to a healthy weight?

The first step in helping your pet achieve a healthy weight is to consult with a veterinarian. An experienced vet can assess your cat or dog's weight and determine if there’s an underlying health issue contributing to weight gain or loss. Once we rule out any health problems, we’ll set a realistic weight goal based on your pet’s age, breed, and size, and develop a plan to reach it. This may involve exercise, a special diet, and changes to their feeding routine. Here are some ways you can support your pet in their weight management journey:

• Avoid giving them table scraps. If your pet is on a diet they should not get any extra food from your plate.
• Limit their treats to 10% of their daily calories.
• Add healthy snacks to their diet - your veterinarian can provide you with some recommendations.
• Find other ways to reward good behaviour such as more petting or cuddles.
• Follow a feeding schedule instead of leaving food out. If your pet always has access to food, they will eat it.