"She is sure is packing on the pounds!"

"Yeah, she always gains weight over the holidays."

If you overheard this conversation, you might think the people talking were being rude. But what if you found out they were referring to a family pet?

Keep Those Winter Pounds off your Pet

People aren't the only ones susceptible to gaining weight over the holidays. Extra treats, table scraps, and a lack of exercise due to winter weather can all attribute to your pet's weight gain.

Unlike wild animals, our cats and dogs don't need to hibernate for the winter--they get plenty of food year round. Luckily, there are ways to prevent or correct holiday weight gain for pets.

"Try cutting their food back...about 10% in the winter if you're not exercising them quite as much as you would during the summer or spring," said Dr. Gina Marguriet. Avoiding additional treats and table scraps will also help.

This sounds like advice we all could use!