The PetCot Company: Caring for Your Poochy Pet- What You Need to Know About Pet Obesity

While we say that there's just "more of them to love," and it's probably true, pet obesity in the United States is a pretty big issue. It's estimated that 58% of cats and 54% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese, and if we don't start making some changes, the statistics are only going to grow. At the PetCot Company, while we primarily care about your pet's ability to rest and relax on a comfortable elevated dog bed, we also care for every other area of their lives as well. That's why we're going to focus on ways to start caring for your overweight pet one pound at a time.

What to Know About Pet Obesity

There are about 80 million pets nationwide that are considered overweight or obese by their veterinarians, but the problem is that the owners consider their weight to be normal. Normally, you would think that obesity would have to do with the weight of your pet, but in really has to do with how much extra fat your pet is storing. Because of that, you really have to evaluate your pet to determine if they are really obese or not.

What Causes Obesity in Pets?

Usually, obesity in pets is caused by excessive food intake and insufficient exercise - much like human obesity. Sometimes it will be more common in older pets because they tend to be less active. You can help fix this, by altering the amount they eat. Don't starve them by any means, but don't provide a bottomless bowl. You base the amount that they eat based on the amount that the weigh, but if they are overweight, you'll have to adjust that. Talk with your pet's care provider to determine a healthy way to manage their weight. You may have to use a special food that is used for weight control, or you may just have to limit the amount you provide for them.

Health Problems Caused By Obesity

You aren't doing your pet any favors by refusing to acknowledge their weight problem. There are many health issues that can be caused by excess weight, and that will affect not only their quality of life but their life span. Here are just a few of the conditions that can occur from excess weight:

Exercise intolerance decreased stamina
Respiratory compromise (breathing difficulty)
Heat intolerance
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Diabetes or insulin resistance
Liver disease or dysfunction
Osteoarthritis (lameness)
Increased surgical/anesthetic risk
Lowered immune system function
Increased risk of developing malignant tumors (cancer)

Caring For Your Pet in Every Way

Take the time to understand what causes obesity in pets but also realize that it's important to recognize it before it happens. You aren't doing your pet any favors by ignoring it. At PetCot, we provide a premium elevated dog bed that supports your pet's joints, whether they are struggling with obesity, or they are an extremely active dog who just need a good place to relax. Are you looking for a raised dog bed that supports your pet in every stage of life? Visit our website and choose the pet bed that you won't have to replace month after month - because it lasts.

Taking Comfort and Care to a New Level for Pets!