由 Jennifer Yuchi Huang » 2007-05-04, 16:18
Generally speaking, both the "over-the-counter " and "prescription" weight control diets contain lower energy density, which means lower kcal per unit of food. The "prescription" reduced energy diets usually contain even lower energy density than the non-prescription ones. For patients who become obese simply due to overeating, we can certainly try to cut down the total daily amount of food to see if that helps to control the body weight. I usually recommend the owner to cut down the total amount by 10-20% (depends on the degree of obesity) and have them weigh the dog again every 3-4 weeks to check on the progress. If it works and the patient has no problem with this method then there is no need for special diet. For very obese patients or patients who are very obsessed with food, weight control diets are still recommended because with weight control diets, we don't need to cut down as much amount of food as the regular diet to achieve the same calorie reduction. The other good point about the weight control diets is that they offer sufficient amount of other nutritions that the body needs, such as vitamines and minerals, while offering less calorie. All the weight control diets are complete diets like the regular ones so there is no worry using them long-termly. When you start to put your dog on a special diet, remember to GRADUALLY switch the diet over (usually takes 5-7 days). Set your goal for the body weight and start with the daily food amount recommended by the brand you're using for the goaled body weight. Be firm and consistant. Reweigh your dog every 3-4 weeks to make sure the body weight is coming down gradually. Some adjustments can be made if you think the body weight is dropping too fast or too slow. Avoid treats, especially high-calorie ones like milk bones and some fruits and vegetables, such as baby carrot. If you need to give treats, consider low-calorie ones like lettuce and remember to cut down the daily food amount. I won't go against your idea of giving one meal of weight control diet and the other meal with a regular diet as long as you have a good control of the total amount and calorie of food you are giving to your dog. And, please don't forget to exercise your dog.
Jennifer Huang