Local Vet: 3 in 4 Central Mass Pets are Overweight
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Playtime is a health essential. Photo: Flickr, Sally9258
The 5th annual APOP veterinary survey found 53% of adult dogs and 55% of adults cats to be classified as overweight or obese by their veterinarian.
Local veterinarian Dr. Deborah Veo said she estimates the number of fat pets in Central Massachusetts to be closer to 75%.
“We feel like we’re talking about obesity all the time in our office - and not as a preventative, as a diagnosis,” said Dr. Veo, veterinarian the Uxbridge Animal Hospital.
Like in humans, Dr. Veo said the weight problem stems from too much food and not enough exercise. Between toddlers dropping food and pet sitters awarding treats, Dr. Veo said in most cases, family members were unaware of just how much food the pet was actually getting.
Veo said the health risks for animals include Type 2 Diabetes and Osteoarthritis.
“A lot of people like the pudgy cat or the pudgy dog, and they are adorable, but it’s not healthy,” she said.
Dr. Veo’s recommendation for dogs includes twice-daily walks, especially if the dog does not have a large yard. Cats can get more exercise during playtime with their owners, using toys that will stimulate movement.
Working owners can also take their dogs to doggie daycare facilities, where dogs socialize and tend to be more active. “Lots of people don’t have time to exercise their pets as much as they need it.”
The APOP website also provides nutritional information for various dog and cat foods, as well as Pet-to-Human weight equivalent charts.
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