Fat Cats & Big Dogs

Vegetarian Times, Jan, 1999 by Tracy Epp

We know that eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise are necessary for optimal health. But sometimes we forget that these same rules for well-being apply to our furry friends. As a result, many household pets plump up and boost their risk of developing heart, joint and spinal problems.

How can you tell if your cat or dog is overweight? Give him the one-minute weight checkup, suggests alternative pet nutritionist Susan Goldstein, cofounder of the Northern Skies Veterinary Center in Westport, Conn. Once a week, stand your pet in front of you and run your fingers along his rib cage. You should be able to feel the ribs, but they should be covered by a firm coat of skin. If they're nowhere to be found, use these tips to get a jump on weight loss.

Food for Thought

What goes into your pet's bowl is key in the battle of the bulge. While puppies and kittens should be given regular natural pet food, Goldstein recommends older animals be fed "Lite" or "Senior" varieties, which contain less sodium and protein. "Salt encourages fluid retention and weight gain," she explains. "And the low-quality protein [in most commercial brands] usually contains saturated fats." She also suggests mixing in one part whole grains (like brown rice) to two parts pet food to lower the percentage of fat and boost the fiber and mineral content. Adding plain, low-fat yogurt is also a good way to lower calories. At snack time, offer fruits and veggies like carrots and apples, instead of high-calorie, high-fat commercial treats.

Take a Hike

Just as we do, pets need to burn off the calories they consume, but they don't always get a sufficient workout. For dogs, Goldstein recommends a daily 10-minute walk at a moderate speed. In two weeks, pick up the pace and go for 20 minutes. After a month, adjust the duration and intensity according to your dog's endurance. It's a bit more difficult to encourage cats to exercise. Balls or any other toys that get them moving are your best bets.

Pills, powders, potions

Certain supplements, Goldstein explains, can speed up the metabolism, which can result in weight loss. Among them are powdered kelp (1 teaspoon [tsp.] in food for dogs; 1/8 tsp. for cats), lecithin (750 milligram [mg.] capsule, twice daily for both cats and dogs), vitamin [B.sub.6] (25 mg. capsule or tablet for cats and small dogs; 50 mg. for large dogs) and apple cider vinegar (1 tsp. added to water, twice daily for dogs; 1/8 tsp. to 1/4 tsp. twice daily for cats). Continue until you see signs of weight loss. Resume treatment if the pounds creep back.