Obesity in Cats and Dogs

-by Bron

Statistics tell us that more than thirty percent of companion animals in the U.S. are overweight. Some of these animals are GROSSLY overweight (sometimes called obese). These animals’ lives are endangered and their quality of life is reduced. You might think your larger than average cat or dog is cute, but your animal will live a longer and healthier life if it is a more normal size.

Problems associated with obesity
Both cats and dogs that are overweight are more likely to suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, pneumonia, heart disease and cancer. They often suffer from heat intolerance, skin disease, and are at increased risk for complications during anesthesia and surgery. Obesity in cats is considered a risk factor for developing hepatic lipidosis, a serious and life threatening liver disease. Obese cats can’t groom themselves well, and often develop hair mats.

Increased weight also stresses the skeletal system, often resulting in hip and back trouble, premature arthritis, and damage to joints. These pets do not or can not exercise.

Obesity should be regarded as an especially serious problem in older cats and dogs (over 7 years). Obesity can increase with age due to:
1. Reduced lean body mass. (This happens even in thin animals as they age.)
2. Reduced exercise.
3. Overfeeding.
4. All the illnesses listed above, as well as hormonal diseases such as Cushing’s
disease and hypothyroidism.

Heart Disease
Many small animal patients with heart disease are overweight. Obesity can have profound cardiovascular consequences. The more obese the animal becomes, the larger the blood volume must be and the harder the heart has to work to keep the blood moving. Reduction of weight can significantly reduce the cardiac workload.

Diabetes
Obesity alone does not cause Diabetes Mellitus, but it is a predisposing factor to the development of the disease in cats. Obesity is believed to be the primary underlying factor contributing to insulin resistance.

Respiratory Illness
Many dogs with tracheal collapse are obese. Obese animals often have chronic bronchitis as well. Fatty deposits in the thorax interfere with respiration. Fat increases the work of breathing and increases abdominal pressure on the diaphragm. Weight reduction can bring dramatic improvement in many cases.

Your part in the weight loss plan
Before putting your pet on a weight-loss regimen, you should first have him or her examined by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying disease such as low thyroid or arthritis that could be a contributing factor or limit the effectiveness of treatment. If the culprit is found to be uncomplicated obesity, there are ways to ensure your pet loses weight. The bond between you and your pet is an important key in this process. Daily management of your pet’s food intake and exercise depends entirely on you.

Most over the counter diet or “lite” foods are only moderately reduced in calories and fat and without strict portion control will not usually result in significant weight loss for most animals. Feeding guidelines on food packaging may over or under estimate your animals needs.

Ask your veterinarian to determine the status of your overweight pet. Your animal should be assessed using a body condition system. A weight loss program and weight loss goal should be tailored to fit your pet.

Since energy requirements vary a great deal amongst individual animals, it is important for you to come to the clinic and weigh your animal once a month. The weight should be recorded and if necessary the food allowance can be adjusted.

Exercise
Regular exercise can help a great deal in a weight loss program. Most dogs are keen to get out and walk with you. As they lose weight and become fit they will enjoy it even more. Simply playing catch in the back yard, or a game of tug is a pleasant way for your dog to exercise as well.

Cats are harder to walk on a leash although it is possible if started as a kitten. Cats enjoy play hunting, and even the most serious couch potato will go after a teaser toy. There are many wonderful toys that you and your cat will enjoy.

If you feed them less and exercise them more your pets will thank you with more healthy playful years. You will provide them a better quality of life.


References
Davies, Mike - Canine and Feline Geriatrics. Ch 15 and 24 (Blackwell) 1996.
Roudebush & Freeman, Nutritional Management of Heart Disease. Kirks CVT XIII, page 711, 2000.
Rubin, Nolan DVM - Obesity in Companion Animals. Montrose Animal Health Center, Fairfax, VA. 2001.