Weight Loss

If you’ve ever sworn you’re putting on weight and it’s a genetic problem, there’s research that suggests you may be right. A protein (SH2B1) in the brain and throughout the body, including in fat cells and major organs, such as the pancreas and liver, helps regulate weight and fat storage. Scientists are trying to manipulate SH2B1 protein to control fat storage and prevent obesity.

Because dogs and cats have proteins and cells that are nearly identical to those of humans, the research being done at the University of Michigan is likely to benefit many aspects of pet health. If we can control obesity, we can decrease the number of dogs and cats that develop diabetes. If we can control obesity, we can help lessen the pain and suffering caused by arthritis. If we can prevent growing dogs from being chubby, we can help decrease the number of dogs developing hip dysplasia.

Until we have a target for SH2B1 protein, we’ll have to use the other methods we have to prevent obesity in pets. Be sure your pet is not eating a food containing mostly simple carbohydrates, such as flour, white rice and cornmeal.