We all love to spoil our furry friends. Whether it’s an extra treat at dinner or a nibble from the table, it’s easy to go overboard—especially when those puppy-dog eyes are involved. But here at Angel Animal Hospital in Galloway, OH, we’ve seen how too many indulgences can lead to a growing concern: pet obesity. Extra pounds aren’t just about appearance—they can quietly damage your pet’s health and shorten his or her life.
That’s why we’re here to talk about healthy weight management for dogs, safe pet weight loss plans, and the real risks of obesity in pets. Fido’s extra fluff might be cute, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of his well-being.
More than half of dogs and cats in the U.S. are considered overweight or obese. Yet many pet parents don’t realize their four-legged buddy is tipping the scale. It may be obvious if Fido is, well, round, but in some cases it’s harder to tell.
Here are a few signs to look for:
Our team at Angel Animal Hospital can assess your furry bestie’s body condition score (BCS) and help you interpret what’s normal for her age and breed.
Pet obesity can quietly set the stage for several chronic and painful health problems. The added weight puts stress on joints and organs, and can increase your pet’s risk for:
We’ve seen this many times at our vet clinic in Galloway, OH. A few extra pounds may not seem like a big deal, but for a small dog or cat, it’s the equivalent of a human gaining 30–50 pounds.
Helping your furry pal reach a healthy weight can dramatically improve his or her quality of life—and even extend it by up to 2 years!
It’s not always just about treats. Weight gain in pets can happen for several reasons, including:
Your veterinarian can rule out medical causes during a routine wellness exam. Once we know what’s going on, we’ll recommend the right steps forward.
The good news? You don’t need to tackle this alone. At Angel Animal Hospital, we’re passionate about healthy weight management for dogs and cats. Here are some vet-approved strategies:
And yes—even Fluffy can work out! Puzzle feeders, laser toys, and climbing furniture offer excellent enrichment for indoor cats.
Ask your vet for specific advice.
Crash diets don’t work for people—and they’re even riskier for pets. That’s why we create safe pet weight loss plans based on your furry companion’s specific needs.
Our plans include:
For cats, slow weight loss is especially important. Losing weight too quickly can lead to a serious condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease). Our vets guide every step of the journey to keep your feline friend safe and comfortable.
We’ll start with a full physical exam, bloodwork if needed, and a body condition evaluation. From there, we’ll create a plan tailored to your pet’s health, lifestyle, and preferences. Your vet near me is your best partner in this process—and we’ll celebrate each success along the way!
Need ideas for activities? Try fetch, agility exercises, leash walks, or indoor games. Even hiding kibble around the house can become a fun challenge for your canine companion or feline pal.
Your pet deserves to feel his or her best—and that starts with a healthy weight. At Angel Animal Hospital in Galloway, OH, our compassionate team of veterinarians helps families build achievable, personalized plans for long-term success. Whether your dog needs to drop a few pounds or your cat is heading toward the heavy side, our veterinary clinic is ready to support you.
If you can’t easily feel your pet’s ribs, or if there’s no visible waist when viewed from above, your vet clinic can evaluate and confirm your pet’s body condition score.
Generally, 1–2% of body weight per week is safe for dogs; for cats, weight loss should be even slower to avoid liver problems. Your veterinarian will need to evaluate your pet, formulate a plan, and help monitor progress.
Not always. Reducing portion sizes can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Veterinarians often recommend weight-control formulas instead.
Yes. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, and certain domestic short-haired cats are more likely to gain weight. But any pet can become overweight with poor habits.
Absolutely! Even Fluffy needs movement. Laser toys, cat trees, and playtime are essential for your kitty’s health and mental stimulation.
If you’re worried your furry bestie is a little too fluffy, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help. Tackling pet obesity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With guidance, support, and a few lifestyle changes, you can help your pet live a longer, happier, healthier life. Call Angel Animal Hospital in Galloway, OH to schedule your pet’s wellness exam and let’s create a weight loss plan that works.
This blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian for personalized medical advice and treatment.
