Weight Checks
Weight Checks
In the UK it is estimated that almost 50% of dogs and 25% of cats are obese (meaning they weight over 15% more than they should). This can lead to many problems, which include joint and arthritis disorders, heart problems, respiratory problems, diabetes and general deterioration in overall health. We will assess your pet's weight and body score and suggest a target weight. We can then formulate a diet and exercise plan suited to your lifestyle and your pet's needs. Regular weight checks help to monitor your pet's progress.
Whether you feel your pet is over or under weight, dog, cat or even your pet rabbit - make an appointment for free advice.
Reasons for weight gain
- Over feeding/eating
- Not enough exercise
- Breed
- Neutering
Reasons for weight loss
- Under feeding
- Feeding the wrong food.
In our weight clinics we mainly see overweight pets. One of the main reasons for this is neutering. We would always advise you to get your pet neutered but you should be aware of the possibility of weight gain and how to prevent and control it.
The main reasons for weight gain post neutering are:
- Your pet requires 30% less calories once they have been neutered and also require 30% less energy.
- It doubles the risk of obesity.
- They feel hungrier within 48 hours of being neutered so are likely to eat up to 50% more food!
So what can we do?
- We would advise you to put your pet onto a neutered diet straight away.
- We can supply food especially developed by Royal Canin for the neutered pet.
- This food is designed for all breeds and types of pets from small to x large and are calorie controlled.
- They are designed to make your pet feel full and help to burn fat.
- The neutered small dog diet has added benefits for tartar control and it promotes a healthy urinary enviroment as small dog's are prone to these diseases
- The neutered large dog has joint support, promotes healthy skin and coat it also contains antioxidants.
We run post neutering clinics where we can monitor your pets weight every few months to make sure they are not gaining any weight after they have been neutered and if they are we can do thing's to prevent it.
Valley Veterinary Group