A study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention indicated that 45 percent of dogs and 58 percent of cats in the U.S. are overweight. A simple flowchart designed by Waltham, a pet care and nutrition organization, can help pet parents determine if their animal is a healthy weight.
First, the chart directs the pet owner to run his or her fingertips against the direction of the animal's coat without applying pressure. If you can feel his or her ribs, the pet may be underweight.
If you can't feel your pet's ribs, the guide directs owners to rub their fingers in the direction of the coat, this time applying light pressure. If you can feel the ribs easily, your animal is at a healthy weight.
If there is a layer of fat covering the animal�2019;s ribs, this may be an indication that the dog or cat is obese. Other signs of obesity include a "tuck" in front of the animal's hind legs and movement problems.
According to the ASPCA, overweight pets are at a higher risk of diabetes, liver problems and joint pain. Animals should get plenty of exercise, and be taken to a veterinarian if you suspect they are obese.
A study conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention indicated that 45 percent of dogs and 58 percent of cats in the U.S. are overweight. A simple flowchart designed by Waltham, a pet care and nutrition organization, can help pet parents determine if their animal is a healthy weight.