Excessive weight gain is a growing health risk not only for humans, but for our furry companions as well. If your pet is piling on too many pounds, we’ve got some tips and tricks to help.

Is your beloved pet a little, well, portly? If so, you’re not alone.

A recent US survey found that a whopping 53 per cent of cats and 55 per cent of dogs are overweight or obese. The fourth annual study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) looked at data from veterinary clinics across the country. And the results showed that our furry family members are growing — and not in a good way.

“This year’s data suggests that our pets are getting fatter,” APOP founder Dr. Ernie Ward said in a release. “We’re seeing a greater per centage of obese pets than ever before.”

The group began conducting nationwide veterinary surveys in 2007. Since that time it has seen a steady increase of pets that are classified as overweight or obese. (To be considered obese, a pet is at least 30 per cent above normal body weight).

In 2007, for example, about 19 per cent of cats were found to be obese by their veterinarian and in 2010 that number increased to almost 22 per cent. And for dogs, obesity rates nearly doubled from just over 10 per cent in 2007 to 20 per cent in 2010.

According to the most recent numbers available from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, 35 per cent of pets were overweight as of 2005. (Interestingly, at this time, nearly the same percentage of people in Canada — 36 per cent — was also considered overweight.)

Like humans, overweight and obese dogs and cats have an increased risk for serious health problems including diabetes, osteoarthritis, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure and respiratory problems.

Diet can also affect your pet’s longevity. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (2002) found that dogs fed 25 per cent less food lived longer and experienced delayed onset of chronic diseases, compared with a control group.

Shed unwanted pet pounds

Want to help your fat cat or pudgy pooch shed some pounds? For many pets, unhealthy weight gain is a result of taking in too many calories and getting too little exercise. Sound familiar? In many ways, the basic weight loss strategies for pets are much the same as for humans.

Get regular exercise. Regular exercise not only helps to keep your pet (and you) fit, but it’s a great time for bonding and sharing some good old-fashioned fun. How much exercise is enough? According to the Canadian Veterinary Association, dogs should have a brisk walk at least twice daily for 15 to 20 minutes. For cats, schedule at least two 15-minute play times each day. (Note: Your pet should not exercise 30 minutes before or after eating a meal.)