Maintain a Healthy Weight for Pets

Have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any health problems. Pets also develop diabetes and thyroid problems, which can contribute to weight gain. You need to determine the source of any weight gain in order to help your pet maintain a healthy weight.

Feed your pet highly digestible carbohydrates instead of food high in fat. This is especially important if your pet doesn't get regular exercise; the main source of energy for dogs and cats is fat. If they don't get enough exercise, they will accumulate fat. Highly digestible carbohydrates contain half the amount of calories of equal quantities of fat and are easier to digest.

Make sure your pet receives a normal fiber level. A moderate fermentable source of fiber creates and maintains a healthy gut. This is important if your pet is on a weight loss program. Some weight loss pet foods replace calories with high levels of fiber, which can lead to nutritional problems.

Boost the intake of active Vitamin A (retinol) in your cat's diet. Cats don't produce enzymes to help breakdown carotenoids (nutritive fat-soluble pigments) from plants; therefore, they require an intake of active Vitamin A. Dogs, on the other hand, produce their own enzymes in the intestine which help convert carotenoids into active Vitamin A.

Keep track of your pet's weight loss; it should be a gradual process. This is particularly important in cats. Rapid weight loss can result in an abnormal accumulation of fat in the liver. Safe weight loss for cats is 1 to 1.5 percent weight loss per week of the initial weight. Dogs can safely lose 1 to 1.2 percent weekly of their initial weight.

Observe your cat's weight. The number one health concern for senior cats (11 and over) is weight loss. Fifty percent of senior cats are underweight. To help your cat maintain a healthy weight, feed him foods that he enjoys eating and promote fat digestion. Make sure that your cat's diet supports his joints, immune system, skin, vision and teeth.