Pet Weight Loss

Reading the nutritional analysis of packaged foods for humans is complicated enough, so attempting to comprehend the label on pet food can be like learning to speak cat. But if your pet is overweight, it's one of the more important steps to getting her weight back in line. After taking the time to determine your pet's ideal weight and calculate her daily caloric intake, you can easily foil any shape-up efforts by misreading the nutritional information behind her food.

Pet food labels are regulated at both the federal and state level, with the latter varying in stringency from state to state. At the federal level, pet food packaging is required to include proper identification of the product, a net quantity statement (how much food material is included in the package), the manufacturer's name and address, and a listing of ingredients in order from highest to lowest volume. States also may require a guaranteed nutritional analysis, feeding directions, and a calorie statement. These variations from the federal to state level result in differences between the information stated from brand to brand, so today we're outlining the key areas to pay attention to while scanning the cans in the pet food aisle to help your pet in the great Summer slim-down. For our tips, just keep reading.

The Summer heat can be especially tough on overweight pets, whose extra bulges are already putting them at risk for heart problems. So I'm breaking down steps to fight furry flab and ensure that our pets stay fit and fabulous throughout these tongue-lolling months! Earlier this week, we looked at how to figure out the ideal weight for your puss or pooch, but that's just the beginning. The next step is determining the number of calories your pet needs to consume each day, and for that we'll need to go back to school for some light math. As with any weight-loss plan (human or pet), consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your pet's diet. Ready to continue the Summer shape-up? Then just keep reading.

It was becoming a recurring event: at each yearly checkup, my vet would place my pup on the scale and utter those dreaded words, "She could stand to lose a few pounds." While Lily wasn't significantly overweight, I knew that with each passing year, I was putting her at greater risk for arthritis, heart and liver problems, diabetes, and more. So, armed with some tips from the vet and a little Internet research, I set about recalculating her eating habits based on a few numbers and some shrewd feeding decisions. First up: understanding her ideal weight.

Your vet should be able to provide an ideal weight range for your pet since he'll know your buddy's frame best, but we've provided some general guidelines for common dog and cat breeds. Keep reading for the full list.

Just because your pet eats it, doesn't mean he's hungry, as science doesn't show that dogs "feel full" as humans do! Gobbling up food can cause a pooch to become overweight or, worse, develop a case of bloat. I've gathered up five solutions for better weight management so settle in and read on.

• Know the signs: While you usually have a clue if you have an overweight pet, key features to look for are a rounded belly or any bulging in the back area. If you foresee a growing problem (literally) on your hands, pay special attention to these areas for any changes first.
• Try two-a-days: Many vets recommend feeding a cat or dog at least twice a day for longer lasting energy and less hunger. Remember, after checking with the label on the packaging for portion guidelines based on your pet's weight, divide the total amount by the number of meals you offer.
• Say time's up: Although my pup scarfs down all his food in seconds, you should remove any unfinished portions after 20 minutes to prevent your own pet from overeating from the trough if he ever slows down.

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