Weight Management
For pets who are carrying extra weight — or at risk of it
A little extra weight is easy to overlook, but it adds real strain to your pet's joints, heart, and long-term health. We build weight management plans around your pet's actual body condition and your household routine, with regular check-ins to keep progress on track.
Who Needs This?
- Pets your vet has flagged as overweight at a wellness visit
- Dogs and cats with reduced energy, mobility, or joint discomfort
- Pets recovering from spay/neuter, when metabolism often slows
- Owners who aren't sure if their pet's weight is actually a problem
Signs It's Time to Schedule
- You can't easily feel your pet's ribs under a light layer of fat
- No visible waist when viewed from above
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play like before
- Heavy panting or tiring quickly on walks
- Weight gain since the last wellness visit
What to Expect
- 1
Weight and body condition check
We assess your pet's current weight and body condition score, not just a number on a scale.
- 2
Ruling out medical causes
Some weight gain is driven by conditions like thyroid imbalance, so we consider whether testing is warranted.
- 3
A realistic plan
We set a target weight and build a feeding and exercise plan that fits your pet's life and your household.
- 4
Regular weigh-ins
Short recheck visits track progress and let us adjust the plan as needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
Healthy weight loss in pets is gradual — typically one to two percent of body weight per week. Most pets see improved energy and mobility well before reaching their target weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pet is actually overweight?
It's not just about weight in pounds — we look at body condition, including whether you can feel the ribs and see a waist. We're happy to do a quick assessment at any visit.
Will a prescription diet be required?
Not always. Many pets do well with portion control and exercise adjustments alone. For pets who need more structured support, a therapeutic weight-loss diet can help.
How often should we do weigh-ins during a weight loss plan?
Monthly check-ins are typical, so we can track progress and adjust food amounts before too much time passes without results.
Can extra weight actually shorten my pet's life?
Yes — carrying excess weight is linked to a higher risk of joint problems, diabetes, and a shorter lifespan in both dogs and cats, which is why we take it seriously even when a pet seems otherwise healthy.
What Does It Cost?
Weight management visits are typically low-cost rechecks focused on progress, with cost varying only if diagnostic testing or a prescription diet is added to rule out an underlying cause.
