February 21, 2023 is Shrove Tuesdaya feast of religious origin in which the most delicious foods in the house are traditionally eaten, before starting the fast that characterizes Lent.
On the occasion of this day, which concludes the Carnival period, we offer you a series of hilarious pictures of dogs and cats not really fit and some nutritional advice to prevent the animal from becoming obese.
1. The rest of the Labrador
As our first extra-large star, here is a friendly specimen of Labrador enjoying a well-deserved rest on a jetty, probably in Southern Italy.
Second recent scientific discoveriesthis breed would be genetically inclined to be overweight, so if you have a Labrador at home pay attention to its nutrition and physical activity!
2. Maine coon: a big cat to cuddle
The second specimen is instead a cat. It is a big cat belonging to the Maine Coon breed, which is known to be one – if not the – largest cat breed in the world.
In this case, the risk of being overweight it’s around the corner if the animal doesn’t have enough space to exercise!
3. The Pug and food: the love story of a lifetime
Here, however, is the Pug. Despite the small size, this specimen is really a sweet tooth, for this reason you have to pay attention to its diet.
The anatomy of this dog is really particular: its flat muzzle is often the cause of respiratory problems that being overweight could accentuate.
4. The ginger cat: bubbly and a little bulky
Here is still a cat instead. However, we are not talking about a simple feline, but about Red Cat. Specimens of this color are truly passionate and have a bubbly and exuberant character. Real clowns!
If this specimen does not have the opportunity to release all his energy playing (therefore practicing physical activity) risks becoming fat, sedentary and sad.
5. Obie: A story with a happy ending
Finally, the story of a very particular dog: Obiea dachshund weighing about 35 kg who, due to his excessive weight, had become practically disabled.
However, thanks to the loving care of his new mistress, a balanced diet and regular physical activity, this little ball of fur managed to lose 23 kg and regain her vitality!
Fat cats and dogs: what to do?
In nature, there are dog and cat breeds that have more tendency to be overweight compared to others. As funny and clumsy as an animal with a few extra pounds is, this condition is true health risk of our faithful friend.
This Shrove Tuesday we want you to reflect on the fact that a significant overweight can lead dog or cat to obesity and all the negative consequences of this condition.
To help our mustachioed friend lose weight, first of all, it is necessary to become aware of the fact that being overweight is a problem.
1. No to DIY
It will be necessary to address the issue with the help of a specialist – let’s say no to homemade diets! – who will be able to identify incorrect habits and subject the animal to the type of weight loss it needs.
Once the vet has established the rules to follow at home, it will be up to us to respect them faithfully.
2. No reward snacks
Among the most useful tricks we recommend replacing gratification, which is usually done with food, with a game or an activity for two.
3. Smaller more frequent meals
Another tip is to divide the usual ration in several parts: in this way fasting times are shortened and the diet is (psychologically) simpler.
And remember Shrove Tuesday is for humans, not animals! Respect their eating habits.