When you see your pet every day, subtle changes in their body shape or weight can be easy to miss. A few extra treats, a little less playtime… it all adds up over time. At Home Veterinary Services helps families in the Seattle area monitor their pets’ health in the comfort of their own homes. An issue we sometimes encounter is unnoticed weight gain. Here’s how to tell if your pet is tipping the scale.

Early Detection of Pet Obesity

Obesity is a widespread, but often preventable, health issue that affects many dogs and cats today. In fact, per one 2024 survey, 33% of cat owners and 35% of dog owners reported their pets as being overweight or having obesity. And it’s not just about appearances. Being overweight increases your pet’s risk for diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and a shortened lifespan.

Catching the signs that your pet is gaining weight early gives you the best chance to reverse course with simple, manageable changes.

Subtle Signs Your Pet Might Be Overweight

• Disappearing Waistline: Stand over your pet and look down. You should see a visible waist between their ribs and hips. If their shape is more sausage-like or rounded, it may be time to re-evaluate their body condition.
• Can’t Feel the Ribs Easily: Gently run your hands along your pet’s sides. You should be able to feel the ribs with light pressure, like touching the back of your hand. If you have to press in to feel them, there may be too much fat covering the area.
• Slowing Down or Tiring Easily: Does your once-energetic pup now hesitate to go for walks or play? Is your cat napping more and jumping less? Weight gain often shows up first as reduced stamina or reluctance to move.
• Trouble Grooming: Overweight pets may struggle to reach certain areas around their back half, leading to matted fur, dandruff, or poor hygiene, especially in cats.
• Labored Breathing or Snoring: Excess fat can press on the chest and airways, making it harder for pets to breathe comfortably, particularly in flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds.

I Think My Pet Is Overweight. What’s Next?

If you think that your pet is overweight, talk to a veterinarian during a routine wellness exam or by setting up a weight consultation. A veterinarian will be able to assess your pet’s weight and lifestyle. An at-home visit provides an even more accurate look at how your pet moves, eats, and behaves in their day-to-day environment, all factors when evaluating their body condition and health.

A veterinarian can guide you on portion control, food selection, and treat alternatives based on your pet’s age and health status. From indoor games to short walks, they can build movement into your pet’s routine, even if your companion isn’t very active right now.

Most importantly, a veterinarian will be able to run diagnostics to check for underlying health conditions that may be causing the weight gain, if food and exercise aren’t suspected to be the culprit.

At-Home Guidance for Overweight Pets in Seattle, WA

You don’t have to wait until your pet is struggling to make a change. Spotting the early signs of weight gain can add years to their life and keep those years more active and enjoyable. At Home Veterinary Services offers weight management guidance for cats and dogs in Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, Redmond, Kirkland, and neighboring Washington state areas. Not sure if your pet is at a healthy weight? Schedule an in-home visit with At Home Veterinary Services.