Is your dog or cat too fat?
The easy rib-rubbing test
MetPet.com Staff Writer
Dogs and cats and other domestic pets are definitely getting fatter.
Even a generation ago there were dogs and cats roaming neighborhoods,
playing outdoors with the kids and getting into all kinds of high-energy
mischief. They likely ate the same food as the family which was
probably homemade meat, potatoes and vegetables.
With the advent of leash laws, with owners working late, with highly
processed diets and longer lives, dogs especially are showing some serious midlife
spread. It's estimated that over 50% of dogs in the USA are
overweight. Cats are following closely behind in the rotund
department.
How do you know if your dog or cat is too fat? Here
is an easy test:
1. With your dog or cat standing
up on all fours, stand next to his side.
2. Place both hands on his back with your thumbs on his
spine.
3. Gently rub all 8 fingers along his ribs.
4. If you can easily feel his ribs (and the flesh around
them) then he's fine.
5. If you cannot feel his ribs without pushing, he could
use a diet.
6. If you cannot feel his ribs at all, it's past time to
consider a diet and more exercise.
Related Information:
Atkins Diet for Dogs?
Tips To Help You Avoid Overfeeding Your Pet
|
