At first glance, a chubby cat or a plump pup might seem adorable, but beneath those extra pounds could be serious health risks. October marks National Pet Obesity Awareness, a timely reminder to assess whether our animal companions are truly at a healthy weight. Proactive pet care starts with awareness, and Salmon River Mobile Veterinary Clinic is bringing information about the real impact of obesity on your dog or cat.

What Health Risks Are Associated with Pet Obesity?

What may appear as a few harmless pounds could actually shorten your pet’s lifespan. Excess weight in pets places strain on their bodies and increases the risk of multiple medical conditions.

• Arthritis and Joint Pain: Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Worsening arthritis is one of the most common obesity risks in dogs.
• Diabetes: Overweight pets are at a much higher risk of developing diabetes, which can require lifelong medication.
• Heart Disease and Respiratory Issues: Fat buildup around vital organs can affect breathing and increase the workload on the heart.
• Increased Surgical and Anesthesia Risks: Obesity makes surgery riskier due to complications with anesthesia and wound healing.
• Decreased Life Expectancy: Overweight pets may live shorter lifespans.

How Can You Tell if Your Pet is Overweight?

Pets gain weight gradually, making it easy to miss if you’re not looking for the signs. Overweight pets often have no visible waistline from above, panting after light activity, and slower movements or reluctance to play. You can’t feel their ribs easily. As a guide, you can look at a Body Condition Scoring chart. A pet at a healthy weight will generally be around a 4 or 5 on the 9-Point scoring system. This is just a guide, and the best way to determine if your pet is overweight (or underweight, for that matter) is to talk to your veterinarian.

Veterinary Care for Overweight Pets

If you suspect your pet may be obese, contact a veterinarian for a wellness exam to discuss weight and nutrition. Veterinary professionals can work with you to choose the right food for your pet, set realistic activity goals, and monitor progress over time. Small daily habits, like measuring food portions or engaging in regular play, can make a significant difference for your pet.

Never make drastic changes for any animal companion without talking to a veterinarian, as you might end up causing more harm than good. You can, however, implement small changes like swapping out treats for pet-friendly fruits/vegetables or adding in some extra playtime exercise.

Get a Pet Weight Management Plan in New Meadows and McCall Areas

Obesity in pets is a health threat that can drastically impact their longevity. With National Pet Obesity Awareness Day around the corner, now is the time to act. Salmon River Mobile Veterinary Clinic has mobile veterinary wellness care for overweight cats and dogs in New Meadows, Riggins, McCall, and surrounding areas. Think your pet might be obese? Schedule a home visit with Salmon River Mobile Veterinary Clinic.