Four-year-old cat “Siraz” is trying to get rid of her excess weightgained due to inadequate nutrition and inactivity through pilates, swimming, and other exercises with a personal trainer.
Turkish woman Beyza Dikkatli’nin adopted this adorable cat when she was two and a half months old and named her “Siraz.” The problem of obesity in her pet started after sterilization, so the 4-year-old cat quickly reached a weight of nine kilograms.
Obesity occurred due to overfeeding and inactivity, so the owner took the cat to a veterinary center for physical therapy and rehabilitation.
“Siraz” has been undergoing treatment under the supervision of veterinarian Bahri Terzi and veterinary technician and physiotherapist Yagmur Denli for two months.
The therapy includes daily exercises with a treadmill and pilates ball, swimming in the pool, and other exercises, and “Shiraz” managed to lose two kilograms in a short time.
She still has three kilograms of excess weight, so she has also been put on a diet.
“Siraz” is not alone; along with her, at that center, dog Nuray Ozunalan also diligently trains. The dog “Ruzgar” (wind) is working on losing five kilograms.
Initially, they refuse, they are scared, but they start enjoying over time
Veterinary technician and physiotherapist Denli explained that they treat obesity in pets by first checking their health condition and determining the treatment accordingly.
Denli said that in the rehabilitation center, they use pilates exercises, treadmills, pools, and various props, and the program differs for dogs and cats.
“When they first start, they refuse and are afraid to do it. We get them used to it by rewarding them. Of course, it takes some time, some refuse, some are afraid, but over time, everything settles down, and they start enjoying exercising,” she said.
Denli also said that they do not recommend rapid weight loss in cats or dogs because it can have negative consequences for their health.
“Siraz started gaining weight after sterilization. She is very lazy, doesn’t like to move, but loves to eat. That’s why she’s unhappy while losing weight. After the examination, we introduced her to a diet and sports activities. She gets tired quickly, so we do short exercises in multiple sessions. We try to make her gradually lose weight,” Denli said.
Dogs adapt to exercises more easily
Emphasizing that the procedure is similar for dogs with obesity problems, Denli said that they adapt to exercise faster than cats because they perceive everything as a game.
“The process is a bit easier and more pleasant for dogs. There are also those who gain weight due to illness or old age. We also have dogs who are overweight due to lack of movement. They can have various problems related to the heart and organs. That’s why it’s important for us to examine them and determine the therapy,” she said.
No concerns about animal health
Veterinarian Bahri Terzi also pointed out that obesity is a very common problem in animals, and cats and dogs quickly gain weight, especially after sterilization, as their energy needs decrease.
“Pet owners do not pay attention to this situation. They do not think there will be health problems because they look so cute. When more serious problems arise, they consult a veterinarian,” he said.
Terzi also drew attention to the problems that pet owners need to pay attention to.
“The first thing to consider is to give food moderately. Every food has a quantity to be given according to the weight of the animal. If we do not exceed these quantities, we will minimize the problem of obesity in animals. Because people are not aware that obesity in animals is a problem and most often do not seek a solution. In fact, they must be aware that their health is seriously at risk and that they can have very serious health problems that can even lead to the death of the animal,” the veterinarian warned, AA writes.
Photo: Anadolu Agency
