In Dubai, most pets live in apartments. The air conditioner works almost all year round, walks in the summer become shorter, and activity gradually decreases. At first, it seems normal. Comfortable. Cozy. But it is precisely this lifestyle that often leads to excess weight.
Obesity in dogs and cats develops slowly. The owners don’t notice the problem right away. The pet just becomes calmer, runs less often, and rests longer. Sometimes it seems like it’s age. In fact, it may be the beginning of serious metabolic changes.
According to world data, more than half of dogs and cats are overweight. In hot climates, the risk is higher.
Why is Excess Weight Dangerous
Obesity is not just an aesthetic problem. Excess weight increases the stress on the joints, accelerates the development of osteoarthritis, provokes diabetes, heart disease and low-grade chronic inflammation.
In Dubai, the heat is added to this. Overheating occurs faster in obese animals. Stamina is falling. Movement is harder.
Sometimes it all starts with the fact that the dog stops climbing the stairs. Or the cat doesn’t jump on the favorite shelf anymore.
How To Understand That The Weight Exceeds The Norm
The home check is simple:
- Are the ribs easy to feel
- Is the waist visible from above
- Is there a pronounced rise in the abdomen from the side
If the ribs are almost not felt, and the silhouette has become rounded, it is worth being wary. A monthly check helps you notice changes on time.
If in doubt, you can contact the veterinary clinic near me or visit the pet clinic in dubai for a Body Condition Score assessment and consultation.
Why Do Pets Get Fat In Apartments
The reasons are usually obvious:
- little movement
- The heat limits long walks.
- portions without proper calculation
- excess treats
Measuring cups can have an error of up to 20-30 percent. Kitchen scales are more reliable.
Treats should not exceed 10 percent of the daily calorie content. Even a few extra pieces a day can change body weight in a year.
Activity In Hot Conditions
Long runs are not possible in Dubai in the summer. But this is not a reason to abandon the movement.
Two or three short gaming sessions of 10-15 minutes at home are already having an effect. They’ll do:
- The search for goodies
- Interactive toys
- Playing in the hallway
- Vertical constructions for cats
Mental stress also works. Fifteen minutes of searching or “hunting” tasks can be as exhausting as a half-hour walk.
When Should I Show My Pet To A Doctor?
If the weight increases dramatically or is accompanied by increased thirst and appetite, an examination is necessary.
The Dubai veterinary clinic may prescribe blood tests to rule out hormonal disorders.
It is important to remember that obesity also affects the oral cavity. Decreased activity is sometimes associated with pain when chewing. Regular checkups at the pet dental clinic and timely veterinary dental services help identify the problem. A dog dentist will help you if necessary.
Routine visits, including pet vaccination or even pet vaccination at home, make it possible to monitor weight regularly.
Prevention Is Easier Than Treatment
A healthy weight is based on routine:
- Exact portions
- Moderate activity
- Regular checks
- Observing the dynamics
If your pet experiences shortness of breath, stiffness of movements, or a gradual decrease in activity, it is better not to postpone a visit to a specialist.
Consultation with the best vet in Dubai can prevent the development of serious complications and maintain mobility for many years.
Excess weight appears gradually. And in the same way, it can be adjusted gradually. The main thing is not to ignore the first signals.
