Is your pet overweight? Rub your hands over your dog or cat’s ribs. The skin should move easily back and forth, and you should be able to feel his ribs. Your pet should have a definable “waist” at the bottom of the rib cage—a small tuck-in at the stomach.

Take a look from the side: If your pet looks pregnant, he’s overweight. From above, a bump out from the middle into an apple face is equally bad news. And it’s not just dogs and cats in trouble; birds can be obese too, developing a thicker breast and rolls of fat.

Obesity in pets causes a lot of the same problems it does in humans. Overweight pets are prone to a host of related problems, including diabetes, joint, breathing and heart problems. Overweight cats can develop skin problems from not being able to groom themselves properly. Overall, overweight pets face lives that are often uncomfortable and shorter, just as people who are overweight do.

Talk with your veterinarian, and then carve out some time to walk your dog or play with your cat—three times a week, at least. Work in some aerobic exercise—anything that will get them running. Birds can benefit from a curled-rope spring perch; they have to work to stay on the thing, decreasing boredom and increasing caloric burn.

Whatever plan you decide on, stick to it. Get out of the habit of expressing your love by handing them treats. Keep treats to a minimum and try reduced-calorie treats.

Published 07/10/09