How to help pets shed extra pounds

Overweight and obesity can affect the family pet. Carrying excess weight has similar consequences for dogs and cats as it does for people, namely increasing risk for certain diseases. According to the pet retailer Chewy, being overweight can contribute to hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even some forms of cancer.

It is vital for pet parents to help their companion animals maintain a healthy weight. Despite this, Rover.com says more than half of America's dogs can be classified as overweight. A healthy weight range varies depending on the breed and age of the pet. However, individuals can speak to their veterinarians to identify an ideal weight for their furry friend. In fact, it is always advisable to maintain a dialogue with a veterinarian regarding a pet's weight, especially when the pet is a cat. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, feline physiology differs from humans and canine physiology. If a cat does not eat for as little as two consecutive days, it can develop a life-threatening liver disease called hepatic lipidosis.

Pet owners can keep these tips in mind as they seek to help their companion animals lose weight.

· Get ready to count calories and adjust food accordingly to create a calorie deficit that is right for your pet. Most pets need less food than their owners may think. In addition, the food measurements on pet food bags tend to overestimate the amount of feeding. Determine calorie need and then measure carefully. Also, cut back on allowing animals to eat treats and table scraps.

· Consider a specialty food that is designed to balance nutritional needs. Many "diet" foods contain higher amounts of protein or fiber to help the pet feel fuller, rather than other foods that offer more carbohydrates and fillers. The food may be more expensive, but it will come with the benefit of potentially helping your pet have a better quality of life after it loses excess weight.

· Introduce new foods gradually as many pets can be finicky eaters. VCA Animal Hospitals says to transition cats with one-quarter of the new food and three-quarters of the old one for four to five days, then slowly increase the proportion of new food. It may take cats between two and three weeks to start eating a new food. Wet foods tend to be more palatable to picky cats than dry foods.

· Use a slow feeder to help your pet drag out feedings to feel satiated with less food.

· Increase exercise by taking dogs on more walks and engaging in active play with cats whenever possible. Adding 30 to 60 minutes to walks can help, and using a laser pointer for cats to chase can help them burn energy and shed excess pounds.

· Move the food bowl around the house so that pets have to travel to find it, thus exerting energy. Cats in particular may lounge near bowls for an easy meal.

· Rather than one large meal a day, split up feedings to two to three times per day to stretch satiety across the day.

· Keep the water bowl full. Sometimes dehydration can mimic the symptoms of hunger. Plenty of fresh water also can help pets feel full.

These steps can help pets lose weight and feel better. Vets may suggest certain intervals for weigh-ins to monitor progress.