But the reaction of Hendrix's husband was a different story. Refusal to believe that one's beloved pet is overweight is common, Churchill said. Often, Churchill and Sokolowski said, the owners of the plump pets are overweight themselves. That makes it a delicate issue, Churchill said. Churchill shows owners of pets that appear overweight.
Owners compare their pets through side and overhead views with ideal and overweight look and feel.
There are several characteristics used to categorize a feline or canine as overweight or obese. According to the scoring system, an overweight dog or cat will have ribs that are difficult to feel with moderate fat cover. And from an overhead view, the animal's back will be slightly broadened. The animal's regular veterinarian should be able to assist the owner in devising a specific plan for the pet, Churchill said. She begins by asking about the dietary history of the animal.