Weight Management

To treat & prevent Obesity (20% over Ideal Weight)

Studies now show that 58%  of cats and 45% of dogs in US are overweight.

Best website: Association for Pet Obesity Prevention

Products

Prescription  Foods:  Royal Canin, Purina, Hills,Iams  (all available  from your veterinarian)   Rx because  physical exam, lab testing, underlying cause screening and calorie counting need to be performed to be safe and effectively used when over 20% of ideal weight.  more info

“Over the counter” OTC foods:  “light formulas” (must be under 320 Calories/cup) many see Dr Wards website Can be used when less than 20% overweight or to prevent. Recent paper showed range of 240 to over 450 Cal/cup in so called “weight management” foods

Supplements: L-Carnitine, Isoflavones, EPA/DHA (fish oils), Level 2 evidence exists   more info

Breeds we specifically need to watch Beagles, Pugs, Scotties, Dalmatians, Cockers, Labs & Golden Retrievers