How to Get Your Animal to Stop Gorging

Dogs, cats and other pets are more than just animals: they are loyal companions and an important part of the family. Unfortunately, many animals get in the habit of gorging on food, overeating and becoming overweight. Overweight or obese animals are at risk of a variety of negative health conditions, making gorging a dangerous behavior. Luckily, there are several steps pet owners can take to help prevent their furry friends from overeating and jeopardizing their health.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring cups
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make an appointment with your pet's veterinarian. An exam and a conversation with your veterinarian will help you learn more about the status of your animal's health, possible causes for his gorging and what you can do to help improve its eating habits.

    • 2

      Limit the amount of food you provide your pet. Rather than filling food dispensers or large bowls with food, use a measuring cup to measure out proper portions of food. Determine the appropriate amount by reading the label on your pet food or consulting your pet's veterinarian.

    • 3

      Feed the animal a few times a day, rather than one large serving. Providing the pet with two to four smaller servings of food helps reduce your pet's hunger throughout the day and prevent it from overeating when presented with food.

    • 4

      Feed pets separately. Since pets can be dominating animals, the dominant pet may gorge on food that is poured for more than one animal. Instead of putting out food for both pets, measure out just enough food for one pet, then place the other pet in another room. This will prevent the larger animal from eating more than its share of food.

    • 5

      Scan the house for food that the animal may be able to access and eat. Opened containers or easily chewed through bags of pet food make it easy for an animal to gorge between meals.