It is not healthy for a pet to carry a few extra pounds. In fact, it is estimated that over half of the pets in the United States are considered obese. While diet and exercise may be enough to bring your pet back down to a normal weight, it is smart to visit a Pet hospital Lenexa KS to rule out any underlying health problems.
Many animals seem to gain weight after being spayed or neutered. In some breeds, the metabolism slows down after the surgery. This leads to weight gain if their calorie intake is not limited. Some animals seem less active after being sterilized. Make sure your pet has plenty of toys to keep them entertained. Be sure to play with them on a daily basis. There are many benefits to having your pet spayed or neutered, including no unwanted litters, less chance of certain cancers, and a longer lifespan. The risk of weight gain from sterilization should not stop an owner from fixing their pet.
There are also health problems that can lead to pet obesity. One of the most common is hypothyroidism. This disorder occurs when their thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. Some symptoms include weight gain, dull fur, and lethargy. A simple blood test is all it takes to check for hypothyroidism. If your pet is diagnosed, the disorder is easily treated with medication.
Diabetes is common in obese pets. Just like in humans, diabetes occurs when there is insulin resistance in the body. While adult-onset diabetes is more commonly seen in cats, it can appear in dogs too. Pets with a low activity level are at higher risk. A Pet hospital Lenexa KS can determine if your pet has insulin resistance. The main form of treatment is medication or insulin injections. However, reducing the animal’s weight is also key in reducing the symptoms of diabetes. Click here for more details about the quality pet hospital services in Lenexa, KS.
If your pet is gaining weight, begin monitoring their food intake and activity level. Be sure to only feed them high quality pet foods that do not contain a lot of corn products – meat should be the first ingredient. Schedule a dietary consultation at website to find a plan that will help keep your pet in a normal weight range. An obese pet should be monitored regularly by a vet to make sure there are no other health problems.
