How to Tell If Your Pet is Overweight

Is your dog or cat a little pudgy? Obesity is not only a people problem, it is also a pet problem. There are an estimated one in three dogs and cats in America that are overweight. Learn how to tell if your pet is overweight.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. The "Rib Test" is the first and simplest way to tell if your pet is overweight. Run your hand across his side to see if you can feel his ribs. If you can't feel his ribs, your pet is overweight.

2. Take a look at your pet's belly. If it is protruding beneath the ribcage, your pet is probably overweight. The abdomen should be clearly defined and tucked up higher than the ribcage. Time to start a diet if it's not.

3. Weighing your pet is a way to measure the starting point of a weight-loss plan. If you have a small pet, pick him up and step on the scale. Then put him down and weigh yourself. Subtract your weight from the weight of the two of you together. This will be your pet's weight.

4. If your pet is too big to weigh on bathroom scales or will not remain still enough to be weighed, take him to your vet's office to use the large platform scale. Most vets allow you to use the scale free of charge.

Tips & Warnings

• Know the weight range for your breed of pet. Some pets may be a combination of breeds so there is no specific weight range to go by to tell if your pet is overweight.
• Unexplained weight gain could indicate more serious underlying conditions such as diabetes or congestive heart failure. Always check with your vet before putting your overweight pet on a diet.

Resources

• Click here to find Organic and Holistic Food for a Healthier Pet