SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Veterinarians with the San Diego Humane Society say too many pets are packing on extra pounds.
The shelter sees overweight pets every day and recently received a 26-pound cat named Angelo; his family could no longer care for him.
"Even though a lot of people may perceive him to be cute or funny, for us it's alarming to see an animal this size," said Dr. Danielle Clem, Hospital Director for the San Diego Campus.
Overweight pets like Angelo are at risk for health complications like diabetes and severe arthritis.
"I really am a firm believer that good pet care starts with what you put in their food dish - and it's as simple as that," said Dr. Clem.
Hospital staff put Angelo on a strict diet and began to encourage exercise. But Dr. Clem warns that if your pet needs to lose weight, it should be done under veterinarian supervision.
"Cats losing weight too rapidly can actually be very dangerous."
While Angelo has already been adopted, SDHS officials invite people to meet other cats during adopt-a-shelter-cat month.
