An Introduction to Healthy Weight Loss for Pets
By Dr. Danielle Conway
It's estimated that well over 50 percent of pets in the United States are overweight and need a healthy weight loss plan to get them into optimal condition.
While overfeeding and offering too many treats are factors, many pets don't get the exercise they need to stay fit. And we don't always recognize what a healthy dog looks like. A truly fit animal may appear to be too skinny in comparison to the average pet.
Maintaining a healthy weight is key to a long and healthy life
Pets are subject to many of the same health problems that we are. Diabetes, painful joints, difficulty breathing, and other chronic illnesses are more common in overweight individuals of all species.
Excess weight can impair quality of life and even reduce a pet's lifespan
The Purina Institute did a 14-year study on the topic and learned that proper nutrition and portion control, along with increased daily activity, can add almost two years to a dog's life while also avoiding or delaying some common health issues!
How to help your pet lose excess weight
One of the simplest things we can do for our pets is to feed them properly, keeping them at an optimal weight and condition.
While it's simple, it is not easy.
We like to feed our pets and often equate food with love. And our pets are experts at making us feel guilty if the food dish is empty and treats are not forthcoming.
However, it's important to recognize that optimal health requires quality nutrition, adequate exercise, and tough love.
Here are some tips from our Veterinary Nutritionist
Healthy Weight Loss Chart
Please consult with your veterinarian on this section or make an appointment with a veterinary nutritionist to help you on this journey if you need support.
The goal is to lose 1-2% of their body weight per week in a safe and gradual manner. The weight loss target will be calculated based on the dog’s current weight.
If they are not losing weight slowly decrease the amount of food you are feeding by 10-20%
Formula:
-
1% of body weight = 0.01 * body weight
-
2% of body weight = 0.02 * body weight
Weight Loss Target (1-2% of Body Weight per Week)
|
Pet Weight (lbs) |
1% of Body Weight (lbs) |
2% of Body Weight (lbs) |
Target Weekly Weight Loss (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
10 lbs |
0.1 lbs |
0.2 lbs |
0.1 - 0.2 lbs |
|
20 lbs |
0.2 lbs |
0.4 lbs |
0.2 - 0.4 lbs |
|
30 lbs |
0.3 lbs |
0.6 lbs |
0.3 - 0.6 lbs |
|
40 lbs |
0.4 lbs |
0.8 lbs |
0.4 - 0.8 lbs |
|
50 lbs |
0.5 lbs |
1.0 lbs |
0.5 - 1.0 lbs |
|
60 lbs |
0.6 lbs |
1.2 lbs |
0.6 - 1.2 lbs |
|
70 lbs |
0.7 lbs |
1.4 lbs |
0.7 - 1.4 lbs |
|
80 lbs |
0.8 lbs |
1.6 lbs |
0.8 - 1.6 lbs |
|
90 lbs |
0.9 lbs |
1.8 lbs |
0.9 - 1.8 lbs |
|
100 lbs |
1.0 lbs |
2.0 lbs |
1.0 - 2.0 lbs |
|
110 lbs |
1.1 lbs |
2.2 lbs |
1.1 - 2.2 lbs |
|
120 lbs |
1.2 lbs |
2.4 lbs |
1.2 - 2.4 lbs |
|
130 lbs |
1.3 lbs |
2.6 lbs |
1.3 - 2.6 lbs |
|
140 lbs |
1.4 lbs |
2.8 lbs |
1.4 - 2.8 lbs |
How to Use This Chart:
-
Step 1: Find your dog’s current weight in the first column.
-
Step 2: Calculate the range of weight loss based on 1% to 2% of their body weight.
-
Step 3: Aim for the target weekly weight loss within the range to ensure gradual and healthy weight reduction.
Example:
-
If your dog weighs 50 lbs, the target weekly weight loss should be between 0.5 to 1.0 lbs.
-
This means, to achieve healthy weight loss, you should aim for your dog to lose between 0.5 and 1 lb per week.
Tips for Healthy Weight Loss:
-
Exercise: Gradually increase physical activity in a way that's suitable for your dog's age and health.
-
Monitor Progress: Weigh your dog weekly to track progress and adjust as needed.
This method of weight loss is safe and helps your dog maintain muscle mass while shedding excess fat.
