If you’ve ever looked at your pet and thought, “Hmm… maybe we need to cut back a little,” you’re not alone.

But here’s the thing — too many pet parents go full drill sergeant and slash their pet’s food overnight. The result? Your dog or cat staring at you like you’ve personally ruined their life.

And honestly? Starving them is not the answer. It’s not healthy, it’s not fair, and it’s definitely not sustainable. (PSA: This goes for humans too, but that’s a whole other rant we’re not here for today.)

If you want your pet to slim down without turning mealtime into a hunger strike, this is the guide you need.

We’re talking real results, real food. No crash diets, no fasting, no sad eyes at the dinner bowl.

Why Starvation Diets Don’t Work for Pets

On paper, “just feed them less” sounds logical. In reality? It’s a hot mess.

Here’s what actually happens when you cut their food too much:

Metabolism tanks – Their body thinks it’s in a famine, so it clings to fat like it’s gold.
Nutrients drop – Less food = less of the good stuff they need to stay healthy.
Behaviour changes – A hungry pet is a moody, clingy, sometimes destructive pet. #hangry
Body stress – Their organs (especially liver and kidneys) cop the strain.

Bottom line: Weight management for pets isn’t about giving them less. It’s about giving them better. And in the right amounts.

Step 1: Start With the Right Diet

If your pet’s kibble is basically a bag of corn, wheat, soy, and mystery “meat meal,” we’ve found your problem. Those fillers bulk them up without nourishing them, so they still feel hungry… and you’re stuck with the begging eyes.

Instead, go for a grain-free, protein packed formula loaded with lean, high-quality meat and superfoods. This keeps them full, fuels their energy, and supports a healthy metabolism.

Pro tip: Our Kangaroo & Ocean Fish and Turkey & Lamb recipes are both lean, protein-packed, and according to Aussie pets, ridiculously tasty.

Step 2: Portion Control Without the Sadness

Portion control isn’t code for “half their dinner and hope for the best.” It’s about measuring smartly so they get everything they need, without the extras they don’t.

A 5kg cat does not need the same feed as a 30kg dog (we wish we didn’t have to say that, but here we are). Follow the feeding guide, tweak for age, activity, and body condition… and yes, those sneaky treats absolutely count.

P.S. You can find nutrient-rich, TASTY treats that will actually support your pet’s health goals instead of undoing all your hard work. Find them here.

Step 3: Feed on Schedule

Free-feeding (leaving food out all day) is basically an all-you-can-eat buffet. And we know how that ends.

Set meal times = a happier metabolism and fewer “just because” snacks. Pets thrive on routine, and it’s one of the easiest, cheapest weight-loss hacks around.

Step 4: Bulk It Up (the Healthy Way)

If your pet is still acting like they haven’t eaten in 84 years, you can bulk their meals with low-calorie, nutrient-rich add-ins like:

Steamed green beans
Chopped carrot
Pumpkin mash (unsweetened)
A few blueberries

It fills them up, adds fibre, and doesn’t add to the waistline. Win-win.

Step 5: Get Them Moving

Shocking news: You can't feed your pet like a fitness model and then let them nap 23 hours a day. Movement matters.

Daily walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation keep their bodies (and brains) in shape. Plus, exercise works wonders for mood… yours and theirs.

The Secret? Balance

Helping your pet reach a healthy weight isn’t about punishment. It's about consistency, better food, and smart and healthy feeding habits.

Thousands of Aussie pet parents have watched their pets go from chubby couch potatoes to happy, healthy legends — all without cutting meals in half or living with guilt trips at dinner time.

Ready to help your pet slim down the right way?

Check out Pet Food Australia's grain-free, protein rich recipes here. They'll keep your pet full, energised, and feeling their best — no starvation required.