PET
OBESITY ( Can be A Chihuahua Problem)
Obesity
as commonly perceived is not just a problem with human beings. It is
prevalent in animals, both wild and pet.. In case of animals it is
mostly found in pets. According to a recent research it has been
found that about 25% of the pets are obese or overweight. The study
and percentages indicate that the problem has reached proportions
where it cannot be ignored.
A
pet’s weight cannot be evaluated by just measuring the weight. It
is more appropriate to observe the physical condition of the pet by
comparing it with one of its own breed or species. The overall
appearance of the pet is of prime importance since the ideal weight
is very varied in case of pets or for that matter in all animals, in
judging the obesity factor.
A
scale of body condition scores is used in observation of physical
condition of a pet. The body condition score is normally between 5
and 9, and a score of 7 is optimal or ideal. This score is assigned
after observing a pets build, fat coverage on rib cage and the waist.
Other factors that influence this score are sex, breed, age and life
style.
Some
observations that can help in your own assessment of your pet are
suggested. The ribs should not be visible to the eye but should be
easily felt without pressing. The stomach or the abdominal area
should be tucked in. These simple tests or feels can be reviewed at
home if the owner can objectively record the same. A veterinarian
would be required for advice if you find that your pet does not
possess the much sought after hour-glass physique. The owner should
have a good reference point to infer the results from his
observations, i.e. he should have good knowledge and information
about the general physical appearance of the species of his pet.
Obesity
decreases the life span of your pet, and an overweight pet is
generally not healthy. Obesity may lead to diabetes, arthritis, heart
complications, endocrinal diseases and bad joints. The medication for
these conditions is also seriously compromised due to underlying
obesity factors and age.
You
pet is overweight because of the simple reason that it has more to
eat and not enough exercise. The over feeding trend arises from the
owners special way of showing love and care to their pets It is very
important to keep tabs on the feeding habits of your pet. Many pet
food packs carry a dosage level instruction, but it cannot be really
depended upon. It is the owner who has to decide how much feed the
pet since a lot of other factors like life style, exercise,
activities, age etc. Most animals tend to overeat given the
opportunity, curbing it is the owner’s responsibility. Taking
advice from a veterinarian in regard to determining the pets ideal
weight, creating a weight loss and maintenance plan, would be a good
start.
