Trends Extra Quiz: What do you know about pet obesity?

AAHA - 11/1/2011

"Spaying or neutering causes obesity."

"If Fido waddles, he’s fat."

"Obesity is natural as pets age and grow less active."

How many times have you heard clients repeat these myths or something like them? Obesity is tough enough to tackle without the hindrance of misinformation and wishful thinking.

With empathetic and informed discussion, you can help clients reject myths and excuses and make the best choices for their pets. To do that, of course, you need to know the facts.

See how much you know about obesity with Trends magazine’s "What Do You Know?" quiz. Click the answer to each question to find out whether it is correct.

Question 1: What are the risk factors for obesity?

a) Gender
b) Breed disposition
c) Owner’s lifestyle

d) All of the above

Question 2: What is the normal body fat composition for an adult dog 8 to 10 years of age?

a) 1%–2% fat
b) 10%–15% fat
c) 25%–30% fat
d) More than 30% fat

Question 3: Obese dogs and cats are more at risk for which condition?

a) Musculoskeletal diseases
b) Diabetes
c) Separation anxiety
d) None of the above

Question 4: How is obesity diagnosed?

a) Blood test looking for lipids and triglycerides
b) Clinical inspection looking for body weight and body condition score
c) Radiographs and thyroid tests
d) All of the above

Question 5: Is surgery an option for weight loss in an animal?

a) Yes
b) No

Question 6: Why are unbalanced weight reduction programs harmful?

a) Animals consume too many calories
b) Animals do not consume enough calories
c) They may produce deficiency states that can cause illness or death
d) Fiber makes no difference in a diet