Help your pet slim down in 2006 as cat/dog obesity grows

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Traci
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Help your pet slim down in 2006 as cat/dog obesity grows

Post by Traci »

Two exceptions, caution:
Consider 'Catkins' diet for feline friends
A cat’s natural diet is mainly meat, and recent research in feline nutrition shows that cats do well on a high-protein, low-carb diet, says veterinarian Susan Little of Ottawa, Canada, president of the Winn Feline Foundation.
No "catkins' diet" should ever be considered for all cats, nor with cats who are obese and have not recieved a proper exam and body condition score by a vet. Various health conditions require prescibed diets or other type diets for the condition, a high protein diet is not appropriate for all cats. A vet should determine if the cat may be overweight and should formulate the diet or weight management plan, based on the individual cat's needs.
Lacking a regular supply of mice, or faced with a cat that turns up its nose at a diet prescribed by the veterinarian, try switching to a good-quality canned food. “All canned foods are lower in carbs than dry foods,” Little says. “Even that little switch can make a difference.”
Same applies, many cats actually are overweight as a result of eating canned food exclusively, since they will eat more. Dental health may also be significantly compromised in some cats as a result of eating a canned-only diet. Although some health conditions may require a canned diet, not all cats will eat it.

Overall, the article is noteworthy, but shouldn't imply that this is a one-size-fits-all dietary approach for all cats. Obese pets must be properly evaluated by a vet who can design a weight management program, proper diet, and proper amounts to be fed, combined with monitorization, weight checks, and bloodwork rechecks as they apply. Also, EXERCISE is important for most obese pets, without exercise, many of the diets will fail, the owner must be compliant with their vet's instructions.

Same applies to dogs as well.
..........Traci
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