Overweight pets are becoming as much of a problem as overweight humans. As we, as a society, become more sedentary and less conscious of eating healthy diets, our pets do also. Overweight pets are more prone to suffer from other health issues as well, such as diabetes, joint problems and even some forms of cancer.
Pets become overweight the same way we do; their food intake exceeds their energy expenditure. One of the first ways 
to avoid overweight pets is to limit their food intake to appropriate amounts. Be sure everyone in the household is aware of what, when and how much to feed the pets. Also make sure you are including any treats given throughout the day to your pet’s overall food intake. As with humans, a pet that eats well-balanced and properly portioned meals but has too many snacks can quickly become an overweight pet.
Some pets, such as dogs, have a tendency to eat whatever quantity of food is put in front of them. Others, like most cats, are better at regulating their food intake and only eat when hungry. Be sure to portion out your pet’s food appropriately, and remove any uneaten food after each meal.
Increasing your pet’s activity level is an important factor in avoiding overweight pets. All pets should have some amount of play and exercise time each day. Obviously the type, amount and duration of the play will vary by species. You are not likely to give your gecko too much exercise trying to get him to fetch a stick! You can, though, make sure your reptile’s enclosure has plenty of room for him to move around and appropriate furnishings like rocks and limbs on which to climb. Any caged or enclosed animal should have enough room to move freely about; for birds make sure you have adequate perches or bars that are appropriate for climbing.
Toys can be helpful in ensuring your pet gets enough exercise. For cats, there are toys that mimic prey, toys that bounce, toys that hold treats and on and on and on. The types of toys your cat will enjoy most depend a lot on their activity level and temperament. Very active cats like toys that give them a run for their money. The thrill of the chase is what is important for these cats; catching their quarry is not nearly as much fun as chasing it. Battery-operated toys that run fast are great for very active cats. Slightly less active cats may like toys attached to a string operated by their favorite human companion. It’s still all about the chase, but these cats generally 
like to catch their prey sometimes.
Dogs have a wide variety as well. Very active dogs like toys such as hard rubber balls or flying disks that their human companions throw for them to chase. Slightly less active dogs may like synthetic balls or other shaped toys that bounce when dropped. Toys that are oddly shaped so that they bounce unevenly and keep the dog working to catch them can be ideal for encouraging exercise and avoiding overweight pets.
Overweight pets are not at their healthiest, so it is up to responsible pet owners to correct this. Ensuring healthy and well portioned food intake and providing adequate exercise are important. Many overweight pets have overweight owners; by starting a diet and exercise plan together you can both improve your fitness and your quality of life.
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