We all love spoiling our pets, and, unfortunately, sometimes spoiling them with food leads to health problems down the road. Often, obesity in pets starts with simple feeding mistakes from well-meaning owners that slowly pack on the pounds. With National Pet Obesity Awareness Day in October, West Babylon Animal Hospital is covering how you might be sabotaging your pet’s health without even realizing it.

Guessing on Pet Food Portions Instead of Measuring

Eyeballing your pet’s food might seem harmless, but even small overestimations add up. Over time, that “just a little extra” becomes weight gain and increased health risks.

Use a proper measuring cup and stick to recommended amounts based on your pet’s size, breed, and activity level. 

Need help calculating the right portion? Bring a picture of the pet food label to your companion’s next vet exam. While you’re at it, bring along labels for the treat bags, too! Having everything with you will give the veterinarian a full picture of your pet’s daily eating habits for better recommendations.

Free-Feeding Pets Throughout the Day

Leaving food out all day (also called free-feeding) can lead to grazing. Pets often eat out of boredom or just because they love the taste of food, which can result in steady weight gain.

Switch to scheduled meals (usually twice a day) so you can monitor intake and keep feeding structured. If your pet walks away from their bowl for 10-15 minutes, take that food away. This will reinforce that they need to eat at mealtimes. 

Relying Too Heavily on Treats

Treats are great for training and bonding with your pet, but too many can wreck a well-balanced diet. Some treats are loaded with fat and empty calories that contribute nothing to your pet’s overall nutrition.

Keep treats to less than 10% of daily calories and choose healthier options like small bits of veggies or vet-recommended low-calorie snacks. There might already be some great options for pet treats in your fridge.

Sharing Human Food

We know it’s hard to resist those puppy eyes at the dinner table. Remember though, many human foods are high in fat, sugar, or salt, and some are even toxic to pets. Plus, even small scraps can lead to calorie overload. Cat and dog bodies aren’t as big as ours, and they have their own metabolism rates, too.

Skip the table scraps and opt for species-appropriate treats. Not only is it safer, but it also prevents bad begging habits from forming.

Manage Your Pet’s Weight with Veterinary Guidance in West Babylon, NY

Feeding your pet is a part of their long-term health. Avoiding feeding mistakes can make a world of difference in preventing pet obesity and reducing the associated health risks. West Babylon Animal Hospital has nutrition guidance and veterinary weight management services in West Babylon for cats and dogs from Lindenhurst, Farmingdale, West Babylon, West Islip, and neighboring New York areas.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s weight, schedule a consultation at West Babylon Animal Hospital.