You fill the bowl, they empty it, and you assume all is well. But feeding your pet “by eye” or guessing portions can lead to long-term health problems, including obesity and nutrient imbalances. At Camden Animal Hospital, we sometimes find that well-meaning pet owners are accidentally overfeeding simply because they’re unsure of how much is “too much.” Let’s break down some tips for how to properly portion your dog or cat’s meals.

Start With the Right Feeding Guidelines

Pets can gain weight gradually. Some extra calories per day may not seem like much, but over time, they add up to serious weight gain, putting your pet at risk for obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. But you, as the pet owner, are in control.
Portion control is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent pet obesity and improve their quality of life. Here are some general tips you can use for your pet’s food.

1. Read the Pet Food Label, But Use Caution
Most pet food labels offer general feeding guidelines based on weight. However, they often assume a high activity level and don’t account for age, breed, or metabolism. So while it’s a good starting point, it’s not the final word.

2. Know Your Pet’s Ideal Weight Range
If your pet is already overweight, feeding them according to their current weight might maintain the problem. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about an ideal weight range and how to safely portion food if your animal companion needs to lose weight.

3. Factor in Life Stage and Lifestyle
Puppies and kittens need more frequent meals and higher calories. Seniors require fewer calories and may need joint or weight-management formulas. Active pets burn more energy than couch potatoes.

4. Always Use a Measuring Cup
“One scoop” isn’t a unit of measurement. Use an actual measuring cup or digital scale for your pet’s meals to ensure accuracy, especially with calorie-dense foods.

5. Treats Count, Too
Treats and table scraps are often the silent contributors to pet weight gain. Keep treats to a minimum and swap our snacks for healthier alternatives like pet-safe vegetables or fruits. Ask your vet for treat suggestions that won’t undo good portioning habits.

Signs You Might Be Overfeeding Your Pet

You might be feeding your pet too much if you notice:

• A slowly expanding waistline
• Difficulty feeling ribs without pressing firmly
• Frequent begging, even after meals
• Reduced interest in exercise or play
• Difficulty grooming their back half (especially in cats)
• Stool that’s loose or excessive

Remember, more food does not equal more love. Portion control is a form of love for your pet.

Get Nutrition Advice from Your Veterinarian

Your veterinary team is there to make figuring out portion control and proper nutrition for your pet easier. During your pet’s next wellness visit, ask your veterinarian about feeding habits for your animal companion. Bring along information about daily feeding routines and treats. You can even bring pictures of food labels! The vet will evaluate your pet’s food and feeding habits and make recommendations (or tell you that you’re on the right track).

Pet Food and Nutrition Guidance in Camden, AR

Feeding your pet the right amount is one of the most important decisions you make every day. And when done right, it adds up to more years, more play, and more memories. Camden Animal Hospital has nutrition and weight loss guidance for pets in Camden and from nearby Arkansas communities like Hampton, Smackover, and Stephens. Not sure if you’re feeding your pet the right amount? Schedule a nutritional consultation with Camden Animal Hospital.