According to the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) 35% of pets are overweight or obese. Being overweight can lead to major health concerns such as joint issues, diabetes, liver issues and more. Working closely with your veterinarian on a weight loss goal is important as we do not want pet's to lose weight too rapidly.  

If your veterinarian has recommended your pet lose weight here are 5 ways to help you can help your pet achieve their goal. 

1. Meal Feeding

Instead of keeping the bowl full all day, divide your pet's daily ration into 2-3 smaller meals a day.  This helps keep your pet satisfied throughout the day but helps eliminate over consuming calories. Meal feeding is also helpful in multi-pet households to ensure each pet is only eating their food. Once meal time is over pick up all the bowls even if one pet did not finish their meal. This will avoid one pet consuming extra calories. 

2. Less Treats

Try avoid giving too many high calorie treats. Treats should not be more than 10% of your pet's daily calorie intake. If your dog is food motivated you can substitute high calorie biscuits for low calorie options like carrots or green beans. This will help them not feel that they are missing out on their treats! 

3. Increase exercise and playtime

Gradually increase the length and intensity of playtime working up to 10-15 minute sessions twice daily.  For cats, using feather teasers to simulate hunting is a good playtime activity both physically and mentally. A nice walk with plenty of smelling time is a great low impact exercise option for dogs. 

Does your pet beg for food in between meal times? Going for a walk or engaging in a play session can be used as a distraction from their food and strengthens your relationship with your pet! Win, Win! 

4. Move bowls around

Some pets will begin to hang out only on the floors or the areas where their food bowls are kept. Moving the bowls around to different floors or rooms will encourage your pet to move around the house thus increasing their activity. 

5. Weight Management Diets

Several pet food companies have veterinary prescribed weight management diets. Just to name a few; Hills Metabolic or W/D, Purina OM and Royal Canin Calorie Control are all great weight management options. Each weight management diet works differently so talk with your veterinarian about which diet would be best for your pet.