Weight Loss Goal Chart - Pet printable pdf download

Weight Loss

Pet_________________ Weight_________ Ideal Weight________ Calories per Day___________

We have determined that your pet is overweight. This is a very common problem in cats and dogs

(almost 25% of all cats and dogs are overweight). Now that we have identified this as a problem, it is

important for you to take steps to decrease your pet’s weight. This handout will provide you with

information about obesity and suggestions to help correct your pet’s weight problem.

Why is Obesity a Problem?

Obese pets are at greater risk for a number of diseases including diabetes, heart disease, hepatic lipidosis

(a liver disease of cats), and certain forms of cancer. In addition, the extra weight puts stress on the

bones and joints leading to a variety of problems. Obese dogs often have difficulty breathing, especially

during periods of exercise. These conditions can cause irreversible damage once they develop. However,

many of these problems and health risks can be reduced if your pet loses just a few pounds. Don’t wait

for these problems to develop. Start working to decrease your pet’s weight today.

Choosing the Proper Diet.

The type of food that you feed your pet is not nearly as important as the amount and the number of

calories you that are feeding him or her. If your pet has a lot of weight to lose, we usually suggest using

®Hill’s Prescription diet R/D. This allows you to feed your pet a caloric controlled diet. If your pet still

seems famished eating the recommended calories you may offer between meal snacks such as no

sodium canned or fresh cooked green beans, or carrots (see amount below). If your pet has a moderate

amount of weight to lose, you may choose a “light” diet. Almost every brand of pet food offers a

reduced calorie formula. If the bag does not list the number of calories per cup, call the 800 information

number provided on the bag. The company representative should be able to provide you with this

information. You can also visit the Hill’s Prescription Diet website at

for additional

information. If your pet only needs to lose a few pounds, you may chose to keep him/her on the same

food you have been feeding but reduce the amount and decrease the number of treats given daily. Table

scraps are always a no no and can cause upset stomach, obesity and a variety of other health and dental

problems.

Weight Loss Goal Chart - Pet