Paw’s Corner: A focus on pets’ weight for the new year

Dear Paw’s Corner: I’ve made a resolution that I hope will resonate with many of your readers. My cat, Gerard, is six years old and has become very overweight. I can barely pick him up! Since October, I have been working with Gerard’s veterinarian to manage his weight, and things are turning around.

I hope that this year, readers will focus on their pets’ whole health. Not just checkups, but everyday choices that will give their pets, like my cat, a longer, healthier life. – Carly B. in Youngstown, Ohio

Dear Carly: That is a fantastic resolution. Focusing on our pets’ well-being not only benefits them, but positively affects our lives as well.

Weight management alone has so many pluses. Keeping dogs and cats at a healthy weight reduces their risks for diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and some cancers. It also helps them move faster and play more because their energy levels leap up. It can lead to an overall longer lifespan, so they’re part of your family for many years to come.

Working with a vet is ideal. They can offer impactful advice on ways to help your pet lose weight and set a target weight for the type and size of pet. They can prescribe medications to help with anxiety and other issues that might be causing a cat or dog to eat more than they should. And they have a ton of information on keeping your pet healthy and safe, beyond weight management.

With more than half of dogs and cats in the U.S. now classified as overweight, making a resolution to get your pet to a healthy weight is one of the best things a pet owner can do right now.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.

by Sam Mazotta

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