Animals in the wild, eating their natural diet and expending considerable energy finding it, do not experience weight problems. That knowledge helps us to understand why modern pets can gain too much weight. Not enough exercise and convenient processed food are the simple causes of the modern epidemic of obesity in pets.

Cats and dogs must rely on their owners for exercise and appropriate amounts and kinds of food. Sedentary living in a home all day long and endless food is not a kindness to pets. Although there is great joy in seeing pets enjoy their food, there can be much heartache later if weight is allowed to get out of hand.

Excess weight is a serious matter to nip in the bud, since over time it can contribute to health problems ranging from pancreatitis and diabetes to arthritis and a host of other chronic degenerative conditions. Problems like these affect day-to-day vitality, happiness -- even life span.

Is your canine or feline companion easily winded? Does he exhibit less enthusiasm for play and other types of activity than he once did? If the answer to any of these questions is yes -- or if it is becoming more and more difficult to feel your pet's ribs when running your fingers along his sides, it may be time for some weight watching.

How do you keep a healthy pet fit and trim? Experts suggest that you increase the level of play and exercise and decrease the amount of food fed. Do not fill a bowl and keep it full all day. Dogs in particular are designed for "feast and famine," so they do not need a bottomless bowl before them at all times.

The type of food is important, too. The closer the diet gets to the form your pet is genetically designed for, the easier to maintain weight and health. Dogs are predominantly carnivores and therefore high meat diets are ideal for them. Such diets, even if they contain seemingly high levels of natural fats, are more satisfying for pets and help their metabolism re-learn how to use up the excess fat they have stored in tissues. In contrast, high carbohydrate diets, even if they contain fewer calories, may encourage your pet's body to conserve fat.

Exercise and transitioning to a more natural diet are more important than counting calories. Keep in mind that all heat-processed foods (that means almost all packaged pet foods) alter (and in some cases destroy) certain nutrients during manufacturing. Although commercial foods are fortified, there is always the danger of deficiencies that could then cause cravings. Many obese people and pets on a steady diet of processed foods are overfed and undernourished. Varying the diet, offering fresh foods, and sharing healthy homemade meals are the best ways to achieve optimal health and weight. Offering nutritional supplements and carefully selecting packaged foods that emphasize whole, natural, and meat-based ingredients are also smart strategies. Unlike dogs, cats actually need meats in their diets to thrive properly.

What's the best way to tip the scales in your pet's favor? Gradually decrease his food intake while increasing his activity level. First, you'll need to determine the exact amount of food he's eating. Could other household members be unknowingly doubling or tripling his treats? If you find that your feline companion is overweight, consider trying one of the many reduced-calorie foods available from pet supply stores. Since some cats are super-finicky, though, it may be easier to simply reduce the portion size of her regular food. Experts recommend a gradual 10-to-25% reduction of kitty's daily intake; any greater reduction can place a strain on her liver.

To reduce your dog's food intake, also use a gradual approach, beginning with a 25% reduction. Breed and age make a difference, so adjust based upon the results you see. It may help to feed more frequently at this reduced level to help satisfy your dog's hunger. He may not even notice he's not eating as much food as usual. When your dog has reached the desired goal, you should then increase the meal size to a maintenance level.

Depending on your cat's individual preferences, it may help to divide her daily allowance into multiple portions, as well. Even if you're not home during the day, you can easily offer your cat four separate meals. It may be hard for the both of you, but also make a point to cut out the high-fat treats. Opt for high-fiber, low-cal munchies such as cooked green beans, raw carrots, or peas -- some cats love them! Assess his progress after two weeks; you may need to further reduce her intake or increase it to maintenance level.

You'll also need to make time for some interactive play. Overweight pets tend to be less active, and exercise increases muscle mass and burns calories. If your cat or dog is extremely overweight, it's best to consult your veterinarian before starting any weight loss regimen. Your doctor can determine if the condition is due to a medical problem or may recommend a specially formulated low-fat, high-fiber diet available by prescription only. Pets are designed to be active daily. Being kept in a home every day is as dangerous to them as it is to their human companions. Not only are such pets likely to gain weight, they can exhibit destructive behaviors, such as inappropriate chewing and digging. Furthermore, boredom can create obsessive eating and begging. If you give in to the pleas, the problem will only worsen. This is a case where the mind must be put ahead of the heart.

Not only can exercise get your overweight pet in shape, it will also help correct these behavioral problems. Go for a long walk -- or two. Road sports such as jogging, bicycling, and in-line skating with your dog will offer a great workout for the both of you. If you can properly care for an additional pet, getting a companion from a local shelter for interaction and play will also help them burn calories and get their minds off eating.

When we choose to take the responsibility for pets, we in effect cut off their options. We must, therefore, intercede where nature once operated automatically. Healthy weight only requires that we do our best to "return our pets to nature" with a wise balance of exercise and natural foods fed in variety and moderation.

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