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When it comes to helping our pets live happy, healthy lives, being proactive is key. To ensure your pet remains at a healthy weight throughout their lifetime, partner with a <a href="https://www.banfield.com/" target="_blank">Banfield veterinarian</a> today.

When it comes to helping our pets live happy, healthy lives, being proactive is key. To ensure your pet remains at a healthy weight throughout their lifetime, partner with a Banfield veterinarian today.

Can You Ace This Pet Health “True Or False” Quiz?

[Banfield’s data](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets) found that cats diagnosed as overweight in 2020 were four times more likely to be diagnosed with urinary conditions.

Overweight cats are more likely to be diagnosed with urinary conditions such as urinary stones.

[Banfield's data](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets) found that overweight dogs and cats were nearly four and seven times more likely (respectively) to be diagnosed with dermatologic issues such as skin infections.

There is no correlation between pets being overweight and developing skin issues.

In addition to cutting down on “people food,” which can quickly lead to extra pounds on pets, veterinarians recommend limiting treats to no more than [10% of a pet’s daily calories](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets).

Veterinarians advise pet owners to limit treats to no more than 10% of a pet’s daily calories.

Just as with people, pet weight management is unique to each pet, and you and your pet don’t need to become marathon runners! You can start with [walking a few extra blocks a day or playing games of hide-and-seek indoors](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets).

In order to help one's pet reach an ideal weight, you'd need to take them on a two-mile walk every day.

A cat that's _10_ pounds overweight would be equivalent to a human having a [dishwasher strapped to their back](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets)...while on their hands and knees...at all times.

A cat that is 18 pounds overweight is equivalent to a human carrying a dishwasher.

An extra 10 pounds on a medium-sized dog — such as a cocker spaniel — is equivalent to a human carrying 56 pounds, or [two car tires](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets). Could you imagine hauling two car tires around all day in August heat?!

The weight equivalent of a cocker spaniel carrying 10 extra pounds is a human carrying two car tires.

A large dog that's 15 pounds overweight is comparable to a human holding [over three sacks of potatoes](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets). Now just imagine doing that while breathing through a straw —which is comparable to how bulldogs breathe normally.

A golden retriever that's 15 pounds overweight is equal to a person carrying more than three sacks of potatoes.

Dogs and cats diagnosed as overweight or obese are more likely to suffer from other serious conditions. But don’t fret. Small changes can have long-term benefits for your pet! Check out tips from [Banfield’s](https://www.banfield.com/) veterinarians [here](https://www.banfield.com/Bblog/bwell/2021/Lighten-the-load-for-heavy-pets).

Maintaining a healthy weight in pets is about much more than a slender waistline. It’s about helping them live a healthy, more comfortable life.

It’s clear you love your pet and, just as importantly, you’re open to learning more! Explore the possibilities of your pet's health and the importance of preventive care with [Banfield](https://www.banfield.com/) today.

You're inquisitive and learning.

When it comes to being in tune with your pet’s health, you’re on it! Still, there's always more to discover about how you can help your pet live a happy, healthy life. Discover more with [Banfield](https://www.banfield.com/).

You know your stuff.

Cat's out of the bag: When it comes to what’s best for your pet, you've got great insight! Sharpen your pet health acumen with [Banfield](https://www.banfield.com/) today.

You're a pro.

All pet health data derived from Banfield's independent study on 2020 pet health trends.

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The good news? <a href="https://www.banfield.com/" target="_blank">Consulting a Banfield vet</a> can help you make the small changes you may need to create long-term benefits for your pet!

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Can You Ace This Pet Health “True Or False” Quiz?

Has your pet put on a few extra pounds amid the pandemic? No judgment here. We know it’s hard resisting those cute, begging eyes, especially after all the comfort they’ve provided us over the past year.

Can You Ace This Pet Health “True Or False” Quiz?

Has your pet put on a few extra pounds amid the pandemic? No judgment here. We know it’s hard resisting those cute, begging eyes, especially after all the comfort they’ve provided us over the past year.

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