manage your pet’s weight

Know the healthy weight for your beloved pet.

Your pet’s weight affects how their entire body works. Extra pounds (even just a little bit for smaller pets) can put your pet at risk for diabetes and other health concerns.

Healthy pet weights and pet weight-related health issues

A nutritionally balanced diet, portion control, exercise, and fewer treats can help keep your pet's weight in a healthy range.

Your pet’s weight affects their overall wellness, health, and energy levels

1 out of 3 pet dogs or cats are considered overweight or obese, making pet obesity an epidemic.

Extra weight can be painful on joints and potentially worsen arthritis in pets.  It can also hinder pets from moving frequently to relieve themselves or drink water, which can lead to accidents in the house or other illnesses.

Your pet’s weight affects much more than how they look. A healthy weight helps your pet fend off health issues and fight diseases. 

Pets that suddenly or inexplicably gain weight may also be suffering from hormonal imbalances or diseases such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. 

But it’s not only weight gain that’s a concern. Significant weight loss can also indicate a health issue. A pet that is too skinny may not be getting enough nutrients, have a metabolic disease like type 1 diabetes, suffer from parasites, or have other health issues that require veterinary care. 

Pet obesity and sudden weight loss can both be signs of diabetes

Obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This life-threatening condition occurs when your pet’s insulin levels are unable to regulate their blood sugar. Older and obese pets are especially at risk.

Use visual cues to help weight-check your pet 

Don’t think of healthy pet weight as an ideal number on a scale. A healthy weight is different for each pet, so what’s more important is if they have the right amount of padding on their frame for their size and age. Once you and your veterinarian have determined your pet is healthy, you can use their weight to check any changes that may happen.

Take a good look at your pet from the side and above. If your pet needs a weight adjustment, schedule a time to consult your veterinarian.

Weight management for dogs or cats

Does serving a quality diet, using portion control, getting exercise, and skipping snacks sound familiar? That’s because it works for both people and pets!

Proper nutrition and serving sizes help your pet maintain a healthy weight

Always make sure your pet is getting the proper amount of nutrition and the right serving size for their species, age, breed, and activity level.

An easy place to start is by choosing a quality commercial pet food, which will list recommended serving sizes for the ideal weight on the packaging.

Are you feeding your furry friend an alternative pet diet?  Consult your veterinarian to make sure you’re hitting your pet’s health goals.

Food and diet tips for obese pets
Your pet’s calorie needs depend on a variety of factors such as age, activity level, and overall health. 

While pet food feeding labels have general caloric guidelines you can reference, we also recommend checking in with your vet for your pet’s specific dietary recommendations. 

A feeding schedule can help with pet weight loss

Your pet needs a set number of quality calories, but how you split up delivering those calories is up to you. One meal, two meals, or more can all be proper depending on you, your pet, and your family’s lifestyle.

One exception is puppies and kittens! These growing animals need to be fed more often to keep their growing little bodies nourished.

Recommended serving schedule for puppies and kittens

• Meals for puppies and kittens under 3 months old: Feed four times a day, several hours apart, starting in the early morning.


• Puppies and kittens between 3-6 months old:  Shift to three meals a day, as they are now able to maintain their nutrient levels longer.


• Puppies and kittens 6 months and older: Serve one meal or split up your pet's daily calories into two meals, depending on what you and your pet prefer.

Why you should keep treats small — and skip the table scraps 

Treats can be a happy part of your pet’s quality diet. Just be mindful to avoid piling on calories. 

Treats shouldn’t be more than 10% of your pet’s total caloric intake. If you find you’re going over, cut back on treats rather than on your pet’s regular meals — your pet’s body needs daily nutrition far more than it needs a snack and most treats are not as well balanced as the quality pet foods.

Also, try to avoid using table scraps as treats. No matter how much your sweet kitty pleads, or your very good dog begs, even a bite-sized amount of human food is packed with calories that can quickly add up to unhealthy extra pet pounds. It also teaches your pet unhealthy habits that can get them in trouble around others or in your community.

Mindful ways to manage pet treats

• Keep treats small
• Breaking up pet treats in half
• Only give one or two pet treats at a time
• Try low-calorie pet treats
• Use regular dry kibble as a treat
• Use treats only as positive rewards
• Use active food toys
• Use non-food rewards like tummy rubs or their fav pet toy

Exercise is an important part of a healthy pet weight management plan

Exercise can help keep your pet happy and healthy. Ask your veterinary team for suggestions if your BFF has mobility or other health issues — there’s always something the two of you can do.

Exercise for dogs

Walks, playing catch, and hiding snacks in a treat toy they love to nose around are all great options.

Exercise for cats

Download more about feeding your pet

Download more about obesity in pets

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