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Some older people tend to take themselves for a dog and improve their physical health, but is it a wise decision? Questionable. Maria Mercedes Galuppo from Buzz60 has more.
Buzz60, Buzz60
Does your four-legged friend always ask for the last bite of leftovers? It may be time to take the measures that are required to put the leftovers aside.
In the United States, the majority of cats and dogs are obese or overweight – 59.5% of cats and 55.8% of dogs – a statistic that has not changed in recent years , according to a survey conducted Tuesday by owners and veterinarians.
Even more troubling: The obese pet survey – defined as being excessively overweight – is on the rise, the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention survey reveals. In 2018, 18.9% of dogs and 33.8% of cats were obese. In 2013, 16.7% of dogs and 27.4% of cats were obese.
"It's disappointing," said Ernie Ward, veterinarian and founder of the association. "At this point, we do not expect any major change towards progress."
Understanding obesity
The health of pets is more complicated than eating too much and taking too many naps. Obesity in pets can be caused by a poor lifestyle, hormonal imbalances, genes or bacteria in your pet's stomach and intestines, according to Ward.
"People want it to be," Oh, you feed them too much. " It's just not that simple, "said Ward." It can be everything. "
The study also found that nearly 80% of veterinarians and 68% of pet owners said they had "tried to lose weight on their animals," using tactics such as reducing calories, exercise and the introduction of prescription weight loss diets.
In the United States, the majority of cats and dogs are obese or overweight, according to a survey by the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention. (Photo: STEPHEN J. BOITANO ASSOCIATED PRESS)
"We know they're trying something," Ward said. "But most people just feed their pets with the same food, but less."
Pet owners should worry less about the amount of food their pet eats, Ward said, and more about making sure their pet gets enough nutrients and calories for the race and level of activity of the animal.
Asking your veterinarian for a "therapeutic diet," consisting of foods designed by doctors to have different levels of fiber or fat, is one way to make sure your pet is healthy and full, he says. declared.
Mix the treats
Ward said the biggest culprit preventing dogs and cats from losing extra weight is taking treats. If you want healthier treats, look for options that contain no more than 10 calories. per serving
"Most of the treats on the market today are so full of fat and sugar that your dogs are asking for more," he said.
Ward gives his own dogs baby carrots, a sweet option with only a few calories.
Do not fall in fashion
Ward warned homeowners against adopting "fad diets" to help their pets lose weight.
"If you want to fight, just ask people what they feed with their pets," he said.
Whether for cereal-free diets or to feed only raw meat or "fresh" foods for your pet, dog and cat food companies often make generous promises that may not be beneficial to your pet's health. animal.
"Each bag proclaims that a different diet will work," Ward said. "Suddenly, science is not involved, it's like an ideology."
Some trends have been successful with many animals, for example by substituting some of your pet's kibble for vegetables such as green beans and sweet potatoes, he said.
Talk to your veterinarian
Pet owners should not be afraid to raise health issues, especially because many vets are afraid of annoying or embarrassing owners.
According to the survey, only 38% of pet owners said their vet had suggested them to dieting or a weight loss routine. Twenty-two percent said they "should ask" and 40% said "they have not received any food advice".
"Not having these conversations is detrimental to the health of the animal," Ward said. "Often, by the time I see a pet, it's a 24-kilo cat, so there's already some damage or a huge risk."
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