When faced with the loving gazes of our four-legged companions, pet owners may find it difficult to resist the temptation to reward them with food. However, too many treats or overstuffed food meals may harm your pet’s general health and well-being. According to studies, more than half of canines and cats in various nations are obese or overweight. Obese pets are more prone to suffer from a wide range of health issues that shorten their lifespans and compromise their lifestyle.
Various Health Risks of Pet Obesity
Obesity has a significant negative effect on a pet’s health. Excess weight in pets is becoming an increasingly major health concern for our companion animals, especially dogs and cats. It is a condition that their owners only rarely recognize as a real problem. Although some individuals find it endearing, it poses a severe health risk. Caring for our pets is a responsibility that falls squarely on our shoulders as pet owners. Here are some possible health risks that obese cats and dogs may experience.
Heart and Breathing Problems
Heart disease and hypertension are two of the many adverse effects of being overweight. It is also associated with breathing problems. Overweight canines are more likely to have tracheal collapse and laryngeal paralysis. If left without treatment, these airway conditions may progress to a respiratory crisis, which can be deadly for pets. Aside from that, vets in Clovis CA, usually advise a change in diet and offer medication treatments to reduce obesity, providing immediate relief to your pet.
Arthritis
One of the most common issues with excessive weight in pets is the risk of arthritis, specifically in older pets. Arthritis causes the cartilage in the joint to weaken, and the increased weight placed on them will put more strain on their joints, causing the bones to rub together more intensely, which can intensify their pain.
The veterinarian can prescribe pain medications, but losing weight can significantly assist in alleviating some of the discomforts. However, if the medicine provided is not relieving the pain, your pet may need surgical services from a veterinary surgeon.
Infections and Skin Diseases
Overweight cats and dogs typically have extra skin folds, which may lead to bacterial infection. The irritation causes your pet to scratch, lick, and bite the afflicted area, can worsen the condition, and contribute to body odor and loss of hair. Overweight cats struggle with grooming themselves, which results in their fur and skin looking unhealthy. The infection can usually be treated with proper veterinary treatment from the Family Pet Hospital; however, unless they lose weight, the conditions will continue.
Liver Disease
Overweight pets’ organs and systems must work harder to keep up with their increased metabolism. The pet’s overworked liver may no longer have the ability to detoxify its own body and flush out toxins due to fatty liver. When the liver isn’t functioning properly, it may cause various life-threatening health problems and require immediate medical attention.
As a Summary
The issue with our pets being overweight is not only physical; excess weight causes or worsens various severe medical problems. Our animal companions rely on us to make wise decisions on their behalf. Ensure that you feed your pet according to appropriate nutritional recommendations and not based on good advertising or a low price. Consult your veterinarian for particular recommendations for maintaining a healthy weight for your pet. So you’ll have longer years together, and your pets will be happier and healthier.
