Calorie Counting and Nutrition for Obese Pets

Obesity in pets is increasingly of concern to pet owners as people are becoming more aware that obesity can affect the overall health and potential longevity their beloved animal companions. Not all pet foods are created equal. Just like in food for human beings, there is a difference between brands and formulations of pet food. Moreover, a pet's nutritional needs change with age, activity level and health conditions.

The caloric intake of pets has been difficult to follow because the packaging of pet foods, especially treats, does not always contain the nutrition information. Pet food manufacturers have been starting to provide more information on the calories and nutritional makeup of the food and treats for dogs and cats. Different animals have different dietary needs. It is important to make sure that the pet is getting adequate nutrition, even if it becomes necessary to limit fat and calories.

Dr. Susan Nelson, a veterinarian and assistant professor of clinical sciences a the Kansas State University, released a statement in a press release that there are several guidelines to follow in feeding your pet dog or cat.

Pet owners have been requesting information and guidelines to protect the health of their pets. Many pets in America are eating too many calories and getting too little exercise. Many of the calories come from high fat treats. Treats are beneficial because they help to clean the teeth, but they are a source of calories for pets. According to Dr. Susan Nelson, treats should account for no more than 10% of the pets total daily intake.

Much like humans, pets can benefit by counting calories, although it is the owner that is responsible for counting. If the pet is a healthy weight, calorie counting is probably not necessary. If the dog or cat starts getting pudgy, calorie counting might be in order/

A veterinarian can advise you on the proper weight for your pet and offer guidelines for weight control. One guideline for a canine is to look at the dog from the top. The dog should have an hourglass shape; broad at the shoulders, narrow at the waist and broadening at the hips. If the dog begins to look thick in the middle it may to time to cut calories or give the dog more opportunities to exercise.

There are different diets for different stages of life. Puppies need more calories and fat then adult dogs. Senior dogs use less energy, so they need to cut back on fat. If you simply cut back on the quantity of food for the adult and senior dogs, they may not get the essential nutrients needed for good health.

Veterinarians and pet food stores now carry a variety of foods, suitable for every stage of the pet's life. A veterinarian can also advise you on the proper diet for a pet with medical conditions, such as kidney disease or heart disease.

When selecting a food for a pet, choose a high quality brand in a formula that is suitable for their age, activity level and general condition. Consult a veterinarian for advise on the best diet for your individual pet.

Resources:

EurekAlert: Kansas State University: Owners should count calories for obese pets, consider several factors for good health.

Personal experience

Related Articles:

Diets for Overweight Dogs

Ten Tips for Safe Travel with Your Dog

Health Problems and Treatments for Dogs

Not Washing Hands Spreads Germs to Dogs

Gift Ideas for the Special Needs Dog