Who says New Year’s resolutions are limited to human beings? If your pet is looking to turn over a new leaf—or you are on behalf of them—you can help them recommit to healthier habits.
Is your pet looking a little on the heavier side? Are they having trouble staying active? If so, introduce these five resolutions to ensure a healthier year ahead.
Pay a Visit to Your Local Veterinarian
Nobody enjoys a trip to the vet—not even humans. Yet, it’s best to schedule a visit at least twice a year to determine how your pet is doing health-wise. If your dog or cat is overweight, your veterinarian can tailor-make a weight-loss campaign and diet plan.
If you’re unsure about where your pet lies on the obesity scale, give them a gentle squeeze. If your pet is healthy, you’ll feel their ribs and waistline no problem. A pet packing on extra weight will store fat tissue in their ribs, making them harder to discern.
However, just like in humans, pets shouldn’t experience rapid weight loss. If they’re shedding pounds too quickly, it can end up shocking the body. Instead, limit their weight loss to 2% of their body weight per week.
Practice Portion Control
Is your pet hungry, or are they greedy? The recommended portion on a bag of kibble is just a starting point—how much you should feed your pet will depend on their current weight, build, and existing eating habits.
Work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food your pet should have in a day. When it comes to portion control, skip out on the measuring cups—these aren’t as precise as you think they are. Instead, measure your pet’s food using a kitchen scale to ensure precision.
If your pet is obese, it’s likely due to dietary factors such as high-fat concentrations and energy density. Remember, their change starts with you.
Try Food Puzzles
When your pet eats too quickly, they can fool themselves—and you—into believing they’re still hungry. Prolong the feeding process by offering your pet their food in a puzzle bowl or a slow feeder. Not only will this slow their eating, but it’ll also keep them entertained.
Schedule Your Pet’s Meals
As a rule of thumb, two meals a day per pet should suffice. However, you can take their meal plan a step further by scheduling lunch and dinner. Instead of free-feeding your pet, which puts them at risk of overeating and obesity, prepare their meals the way you would with your vitamins or exercise routine.
Limit Their Treats
If your pet’s mantra is “treat yourself,” you may want to re-think this one! Treats can become part of a healthy diet so long as you’re accounting for the calories in them. Instead of processed treats, opt for a few slices of raw apple or carrots.
If your family members love to sneak your pet a treat, slap them on the wrist. Communicate your pet’s new diet plan to those who interact with them regularly.
Conclusion
A lean pet is a happy pet—no matter what their mouth is telling you. As 2021 rolls around, get your pet in on your New Year’s resolutions with a few of their own.
Are you having trouble finding healthy pet food in Chelsea? Visit your local pet store at Wags to Wiskers and introduce healthy, tasty kibble into your pet’s daily diet. You can order online, call, or email to place an order and we are offering curbside pickup as well!