6 Common Problems That Prevent Pet Weight Loss

Problem 1: How to resist those begging eyes.

• If you are following the feeding instructions given to you by your veterinarian, your pets caloric needs are being met. Begging is a behavior and is not nutrition or hunger related.
• Instead of offering treats, try a social or activity substitute such as, playing, grooming, walking, or offering affection.
• Take a portion of your pets daily food and put it in a separate bag and use it as treats during the day. This way you are not giving any extra calories only extra love.
• Try dividing food into smaller more frequent meals during the day.
• Use food toys, and food puzzles to stimulate your pet’s mind while working for dinner.

Problem 2: My pets steal each other’s food.

• Try feeding your pets in separate areas of the house. All the pets in the house should be on twice daily feeding.

Problem 3: My pet does not like the new diet.

• There are several different diets that veterinarians have available for weight-loss.  Talk to your vet and together work to find the right one for your pet.

Problem 4: My pet was losing weight in the beginning and now he/she isn’t.

• Your pet may have metabolic adaptions which may result in slowing of weight loss or a plateau. At this point we may need to adjust the feeding recommendations.
• The amount of food you have been feeding may not have changed, but what about your pets exercise? Has rainy weather prevented you from going on your daily walks? Did the batteries in the laser pointer go out?  Maintaining and exercise routine is just as important as the amount of food our pets get.

Problem 6:  I feel guilty now that I have to tell them no.

• Understand that food-seeking behavior is often more of an attention-seeking behavior. Try going for a walk, or playing a game when your pet starts begging.
• Dogs develop stronger bonds with people who walk them, than those who provide food.
• Remember you are helping your pet by restricting their diet. You are improving their daily quality of life by helping them lose weight, and increasing their life expectancy by up to two and a half years.

Problem 6: The other family members in my house are sneaking food & treats.

• Designate one family member that is in charge of daily feedings, and measuring out daily treats. Measure out daily treats and put them in a separate bag. Inform family members that once the treats in this bag are gone your dog/cat is not allowed to have anything else.
• Bring your family member to your pet weigh-ins. This may help them see the accomplishments being made, and motivate them more.
• Explain to family member that you are increasing your pet’s life expectancy and that the benefits of weight loss are more important than feeding treats.

For more information visit our website at www. FunkstownVet.com/fit-club