It’s not uncommon for pet owners to be unaware that their beloved companions have crossed into the overweight or obese territory. This is partly due to the prevailing perception that a content animal should resemble a plump and cheerful Labrador or cat. A reliable method to determine if your pet maintains an ideal weight involves observing them from above, noting a subtle waistline taper. Additionally, a gentle glide of your fingers along their sides should allow you to discern the presence of ribs beneath their skin.

In the event that your pet has been identified as overweight or obese, there are several strategies to initiate their journey towards weight loss. As a first step, consider reducing their daily diet by a quarter, while vigilantly tracking their progress.

For those voracious eaters among dogs, a combination of diet reduction and incorporation of low-calorie vegetables can provide a sense of fullness without the burden of excessive calories.

Should these approaches prove ineffective, the option of transitioning to a specialised weight loss diet emerges. These diets are meticulously formulated to ensure completeness and balance, and the most suitable for your pet which will work to safely help them shed those extra kilos while ensuring their contentment.

The process of shifting your pet’s diet warrants careful attention to avoid potential gastrointestinal disturbances. To facilitate a seamless transition, it’s advisable to gradually introduce the new food while phasing out the old over a span of 5-7 days.

• Days 1-2: Blend 75% of the old food with 25% of the new food.
• Days 3-4: Mix 50% of the old food with an equal 50% of the new food.
• Days 5-6: Combine 25% of the old food with a predominant 75% of the new food.
• Day 7: Successfully transition to 100% new food!