Obesity is categorized as an excess of body fat that is enough to impair health, welfare and quality of life. Despite what some might think, it can and does affect all types of pets, including even the most exotic of birds, the parrot: this cracker loving animal is prone to obesity!
Here is some important information if you are questioning whether or not your pet may be overweight:
-22% of dog owners and 15% of cat owners said their pet’s weight was normal when it was actually overweight or obese.
-Cats who are 10 to 20% over their ideal body weight are considered overweight. Cats 20% over their ideal weight are considered obese.
-If your pet is overweight or obese, it can cause arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, certain cancers, heart and respiratory disease, and other problems.
-To check if your pet is obese or overweight, you should be able to easily feel your pet’s ribs without pressing on the pet and your pet’s stomach should be tucked in.
-Veterinarians determine if a pet is overweight or obese by its body condition score (BCS). Veterinarians assess the amount of stored fat and assign a number to score if a pet is underweight, overweight, or just right.
If you have any concerns/inquiries about pet obesity, be sure to visit the ParkGate Animal & Bird Hospital online or in-person on the North Shore for more information about this issue.
Sources:
https://www.dosomething.org/facts/11-facts-about-pet-obesity
