Ask the Vet Q&A: Does diet pet food actually work?
Does diet pet food actually work?
Short answer — yes.
Many “diet” pet foods work because they are lower in calories and often higher in fiber or protein, which helps pets feel more full while eating fewer calories. For dogs or cats who simply need to reduce their daily intake a bit, that can be really helpful.
But it’s also important to rule out any medical issues that can make weight loss harder. Sometimes a pet gains weight because of something going on under the surface, like an underactive thyroid, Cushing’s disease, or pain that makes them less active.
It’s always a good idea to check in with your vet to make sure nothing else is at play.