4 Foolproof Ways to Help Your Pet Lose Weight


By Woman's Day Staff

Chunky kitty? Pudgy pup? Keeping your pet from tipping the scales can be tough. Help him stay healthy and live longer with a little extra motivation. Try these toys and tricks to get your couch-loving pet moving. Photo by iStock

Give your cat something new to chase.


A ball of yarn is so last year! Try a laser, like the FroliCat Bolt ($20; Wag.com). Your kitty will pounce, chase or bat a bright red dot of light as it creates patterns on the floor or wall. Use the handheld mode (you can flash it as you walk around the house to encourage him to follow you), or turn on the automatic timer to keep him moving when you aren't free to play.

Related: Try easy exercise drills to slim down fast.

Arrange a playdate.

Dogs feed off one another's energy, so arrange a trip to the park with a pal who owns a dog that's friendly with yours. To add to your pup's workout, bring along the Chuckit Kick Fetch ball ($25; Amazon.com). The toy is designed to be booted (kicks go farther than throws) and has grooves so your dog can easily pick it up.

Related:
Get a trimmer tummy in weeks!

Be his stair master.

Putting your pet's water bowl upstairs and his food bowl downstairs ensures he gets a little cardio a few times a day.

Set up a doggy gym.


Place some cones in your backyard for your dog to weave through, or sign up for a class at Zoom Room, an indoor exercise and training franchise (ZoomRoomOnline.com). There, your dog can navigate obstacle courses, jump over hurdles and zip through tunnels. Most locations offer new clients five sessions for $150.

Related:Discover 7 tummy toning exercises.

SOURCES: Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Tom LoBasso, DVM, Cobble Hill Animal Clinic, Brooklyn, NY. Shawn Rafferty, DVM, Shelton Veterinary Center, Shelton, CT. Kristel Weaver, DVM, MVPM, Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care, San Ramon, CA. WebVets.com.

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