Is your pet looking a little round around the edges? These ten simple tips will help your cat or dog return to a healthy weight gently and safely.

1) Keep a food diary

Note every bite for a week – meals, treats, scraps. It’s the quickest way to spot where extra calories sneak in and which habits to tweak.

2) Measure portions

Use a scoop or kitchen scales and follow the guidance on pack as a start. Adjust for age, activity and body condition. If you’re unsure, speak to your vet.

3) Consider a weight-management diet

‘Light’ or targeted weight-control recipes help pets feel full on fewer calories. Transition gradually and check with your vet for specific needs.

4) Make sure no one else is feeding them

Well-meaning neighbours (or family!) can undo your hard work. For outdoor cats, a collar tag that says “Please don’t feed me” keeps portions consistent.

5) Stick to pet food (no table scraps)

Human food isn’t balanced for pets and easily adds hidden calories. Keep treats pet-specific – ideally lower-calorie options.

6) Weigh regularly

Track progress every 1–2 weeks. For small pets, weigh yourself, then together – the difference is their weight.

7) Use slow-feeder bowls

Fast eaters tend to overeat. Slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders extend mealtime and support digestion.

8) Turn meals into games

Hide part of their ration in toys or scatter-feed to encourage foraging and movement. Cats love chase games; dogs love seek-and-find.

9) Be patient (gradual goals)

A safe rate is around 1–2% of body weight per week. Steady beats speedy – and keeps the weight off.

10) Move a little more, every day

Extra play bursts, an extra block on your walk, or short training games all add up. Make it fun and consistent.