Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder of dogs and cats. It is estimated that 25-44 percent of pet dogs and up to 40% of pet cats seen by veterinarians are obese.
Special diets like CNM Clinical Nutrition Management® brand OM-FORMULA® veterinary diet can be an important nutritional aid and can play a significant role in helping to maintain a pet's health.
What Is Obesity ?
Obesity is defined as an
excessive accumulation of body
fat due to the intake of more
dietary energy (calories) than the
body needs. An animal is
considered obese if it weighs at
least 20% more than its ideal body weight
due to due to excess body
fat. Obesity is often associated
with increased risk of adverse
effects on health and longevity.
Diagnosing Your Pet's Condition
It is often difficult to determine if your pet weights more than it should. In general, if your dog or cat weighs 15-20 percent more than it did as a young, healthy adult, it may be obese. Another way to check your pet is to run your hands along its sides. You should readily be able to feel your pet's ribs. If you can't, or if you suspect that your dog or cat weighs too much, it is important to consult your veterinarian for advice about putting your pet on a weight reduction program. A complete physical examination will help to rule out medical problems that mimic or cause obesity. It will also helpyour veterinarian to diagnose other health problems which your pet may have as a result ofobesity.
In some cases laboratory tests and and even X-rays may be needed to evaluate your pet's condition.
Knowing the Diet Difference
CNM Clinical Nutrition Management OM-FORMULA canine and feline diets are formulated to provide proper nutrition as part of a safe weight loss program for the adult dog and cat. These high quality foods provide an adequate supply of nutrients but a reduced number of calories. OM-FORMULA diets contain reduced quantities of fat and increased levels of fiber. They are formulated for maximum palatability and pet satisfaction while reducing the amount of dietary energy. Fed appropriately, OM-FORMULA will assist in safe, measured weight loss for your pet. OM-FORMULA canine and feline diets should be fed only under the direction of a veterinarian.
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