By Hope Schultz for WebVet                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

 Like people, pets come in all shapes and sizes.  Unfortunately, as of late, these have been getting larger and larger.  Obesity in cats and dogs is a growing epidemic.  And what we find is that if pets are overweight, it's typically a reflection of their owners.  Heavy people, heavy pets.

 Let's take a look at the stats.  Today, a whopping 23 percent of American adults are considered obese and one in five children is overweight.  And as for our furry four-legged friends . . .  44 percent of dogs and 57 percent of cats are overweight with 10 percent and 17 percent classified as obese, respectively.  

 So how do you tell if your pet is overweight?  

 The first thing you can do is feel for their ribs.  If you can easily feel them - with a slight cover of fat -- then your pet is likely at its normal weight.  If not . . . well we all know what that means.  

 Next, check for a well-defined waistline.  Yes, even pets like the idea of having a little cut-in under the rib cage.  If you stand over your pet, look down and see they have a defined waistline, your pet is in the clear.  On the other hand, if what you see resembles a large sausage, it's safe to say your pet is likely in need of some diet and exercise counsel. 

 So, while our human kids have Jamie Oliver and Michelle Obama advocating for healthier eating, exercise and weight loss . . .Our pets only have us!  Those that love them most, but oftentimes make the mistake of demonstrating our love with food.  If you really love your pet . . . it's everything in moderation . . . except big hugs and tantalizing belly rubs!