Pet Weight Loss Programs
Nutritional advice
Are you looking for a way to support your pet’s weight loss journey? We carry only premium foods for your pets, with a vast variety of pet foods formulated to address many specific nutritional needs, including maintaining a healthy weight, managing weight gain, and addressing excess weight. Let us recommend a diet that best meets your pet’s identifiable needs.
This includes advice on how to help your pet lose weight through to giving advice on specialised diets for specific diseases conditions. Through many years of experience we have some homemade recipes and prescription diets.
Why Does Your Pet’s Weight Matter?
Carrying extra weight is one of the most common health problems we see in dogs and cats. It might not seem like a big deal, but even a small amount of excess weight can put real strain on your pet’s body over time.
Overweight pets are at higher risk of developing conditions including arthritis and joint pain, diabetes, heart disease, skin problems, breathing difficulties, and complications under anaesthesia. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce these risks and gives your pet more energy, better mobility, and a longer, more comfortable life.
Weight gain in pets is usually the result of eating more than they need, combined with not enough exercise. It can happen gradually, which is why many owners don’t realise their pet is overweight until it’s flagged at a vet visit. Some signs to look out for include difficulty feeling your pet’s ribs, a loss of visible waist, and reduced energy or reluctance to exercise.
If you think your pet may be carrying extra weight, our team can assess their body condition and put together a tailored plan that includes the right diet, portion guidance, and a realistic weight loss target. We’ll monitor their progress with regular weigh-ins and adjust the plan as needed.
Common Questions About Pet Weight Management
How do I know if my pet is overweight?
A simple check is to run your hands along your pet's sides. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard. If you can't, or if your pet has lost their waistline when viewed from above, they may be carrying excess weight. Our team can do a proper body condition assessment at your next visit.
How much should I be feeding my pet?
It depends on their species, breed, age, activity level, and whether they're desexed. The feeding guides on pet food packaging are a starting point, but they're often generous. We can help you work out the right amount for your pet's specific needs.
Are treats making my pet fat?
They can. Treats, table scraps, and dental chews all add up. In a small dog, even a few extra treats a day can be the equivalent of an extra meal. We can suggest lower-calorie alternatives and help you factor treats into your pet's daily intake.
Is it harder for desexed pets to lose weight?
Desexing can lower your pet's metabolism, which means they may need less food than before. This is manageable with the right diet and portion control. It's not a reason to avoid desexing, but it is something to be aware of.
How long will it take for my pet to lose weight?
Safe weight loss is gradual. We typically aim for a loss of 1 to 2% of body weight per week. Crash diets aren't safe for pets (especially cats, where rapid weight loss can cause serious liver problems). We'll set a realistic timeline and track progress with regular check-ins.
Can I just cut back on food instead of changing diets?
Simply feeding less of a regular diet can mean your pet misses out on essential nutrients. Weight management diets are formulated to be lower in calories while still providing complete nutrition, so your pet feels satisfied and stays healthy while losing weight.
Call 02 9545 2100 now to book an appointment with our highly trained veterinarians and vet nurses today!
Customer Feedback
“When we got our new puppy Parker Brown, we knew we would go back to Sutherland Vet. They were the medical team that got us through the routine and unexpected ups and downs of our old dog Leroy’s life, right up to the end and they did it with so much love and care. There is so much trust and history there. They’re part of the family.”
– Alicia B.