Weight gain in pets isn’t always something that happens in the blink of an eye. At Rowan Vets, our team often encounter pets whose weight has crept up over a long period of time, without their owner really noticing. But what causes this to happen, and how can it be prevented?

In this article, vet Ruth Mackay unravels the mystery, exploring the dietary culprits that lead to weight gain.

If you’re not sure where your pet’s weight stands, book a check-up today – our team are always happy to help.

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What causes pet weight gain?

Our vet Ruth explains that weight gain isn’t just down to what your pet is eating, although this plays a big role. In most cases, an otherwise healthy pet is likely to gain weight if they are consuming more energy than they’re using, meaning a sedentary lifestyle, or lack of exercise, can also be a factor.

However, at Rowan Vets we sometimes see dogs and cats who have become overweight despite regular activity levels and a monitored diet. Weight gain can occur due to a medical or hormonal issue, such as an underactive thyroid or Cushing’s disease in dogs, or fluid retention in dogs and cats. Medication such as steroids may also cause weight gain as a side effect, as they can sometimes alter your pet’s metabolism or appetite – we always advise speaking to one of our vets, as causes can vary by species.

If your pet’s weight gain seems unexplained, get in touch right away so we can rule out any health issues.

The culinary culprits

While food isn’t the only factor that leads to weight gain, there are a few sneaky culprits to watch out for – take a look at Ruth’s list below:

• Not weighing food: If you’re eyeballing your pet’s food daily, it can be easy to overestimate. Even just a little extra each day can add up over time – Ruth encourages owners to keep measurements consistent.
• ‘Healthy’ treats like salmon oil, eggs and peanut butter: These treats may seem healthy, but they’re high in fat, meaning extra calories to consider.
• Processed treats and chews: These are often high in fat. Try switching to treats with a lower fat content, such as dehydrated single-ingredient treats.
• Table scraps: Be mindful of allowing your pet to indulge in your food. Many human foods are prepared with fats such as butter, oil and sugar, which can contribute to weight gain over time. Excess salt can also be problematic for pets.

Ruth shares that awareness is often the first step to seeing progress. If you would like more guidance, or feel something is off with your pet, get in touch today. Our team are always happy to take a look.

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