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Nutrition and Weight Management

Helping Your Pet Live a Longer, Healthier Life

Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in your pet’s overall health. A balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent disease, improve mobility, increase energy, and add years to your pet’s life.

At Avenue Animal Hospital, we work with you to create a personalized nutrition plan based on your pet’s age, breed, lifestyle, and medical needs.

Why Nutrition Matters

The food your pet eats affects nearly every aspect of their health.

Good nutrition supports:

  • Healthy growth and development

  • Strong muscles and bones

  • Healthy skin and coat

  • A strong immune system

  • Healthy digestion

  • Heart health

  • Joint health

  • Increased energy

  • Longer lifespan

Is Your Pet at a Healthy Weight?

Did you know that more than half of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight?

Even a few extra pounds can increase your pet’s risk for:

  • Arthritis

  • Diabetes

  • Heart disease

  • High blood pressure

  • Respiratory problems

  • Liver disease

  • Decreased mobility

  • Shortened lifespan

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is one of the greatest gifts you can give them.

Signs Your Pet May Be Overweight

Your pet may benefit from a weight evaluation if you notice:

  • Difficulty feeling their ribs

  • Loss of a defined waist

  • Trouble jumping or climbing stairs

  • Becoming tired on walks

  • Difficulty getting up

  • Decreased activity

  • Heavy breathing after mild exercise

Our veterinarians can determine your pet’s ideal body condition and develop a safe weight-loss plan if needed.

Prescription Diets

Some medical conditions require specialized nutrition.

We may recommend prescription diets for pets with:

  • Kidney disease

  • Diabetes

  • Urinary tract disease

  • Food allergies

  • Gastrointestinal disease

  • Liver disease

  • Obesity

  • Joint disease

These therapeutic diets are formulated to support specific health conditions and should only be used under veterinary guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I know if my pet is overweight?

During your pet’s wellness exam, we’ll evaluate their body condition score and discuss whether they’re at an ideal weight.
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Can I just feed less food?

Not always. Weight management involves choosing the right food, correct portions, appropriate treats, and regular exercise.

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Are homemade diets safe?

Homemade diets can be appropriate in some cases, but they should be carefully balanced to ensure they meet your pet’s nutritional requirements. We can help guide you if you’re considering this option.

A Healthy Weight Means a Happier Life

Whether your pet needs to lose a few pounds, gain weight, or simply maintain a healthy body condition, our team is here to help. Together, we can create a nutrition plan that supports a longer, healthier, and more active life.

Schedule your pet’s wellness exam today to discuss nutrition and weight management with one of our veterinarians.

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