When Cleatus the Chihuahua struggled to take a few steps across the room, his family knew something had to change. Once a tiny puppy full of potential energy, he had gradually gained weight over the years until even basic movement became exhausting. At his heaviest, Cleatus weighed 35 pounds, a number that may not sound extraordinary for larger breeds but is significant for a Chihuahua.
His journey, later shared by Newsner, is not just a feel good transformation story. It is also a powerful reminder of how nutrition, medical care, and consistency can dramatically improve a pet’s quality of life.
This article explores Cleatus’s weight loss journey through both emotional and scientific perspectives, highlighting what pet owners can learn about responsible care and long term wellbeing.
When Extra Treats Turn Into a Health Risk
Most people understand that balanced nutrition and exercise are key to good health. The same principle applies to pets. However, unlike humans, animals rely entirely on their caregivers to regulate food intake.
Cleatus had been free fed dry kibble since he was a puppy. Free feeding means food is available at all times, allowing the dog to eat whenever it chooses. While this approach can work for some pets, it may lead to overeating in others.
By the time he reached adulthood, Cleatus tipped the scale at 35 pounds. For context, the American Kennel Club notes that a typical Chihuahua usually weighs between 2 and 6 pounds. Although individual sizes vary, Cleatus was significantly above a healthy range.
At that weight, he struggled to walk and had to be wheeled outside. His energy levels were low, and daily activities became challenging.
The Turning Point: Veterinary Intervention
Cleatus’s owner, Austin Lee, sought help with support from his girlfriend Laura, a veterinary technician. Before starting a weight loss plan, they focused on his underlying health issues.
Most of Cleatus’s teeth were removed due to dental disease, a common condition in small breeds. Dental pain can affect appetite and overall wellbeing, so addressing it was essential.
Blood tests revealed another key factor: hypothyroidism, an under active thyroid gland. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, hypothyroidism slows metabolism and can contribute to weight gain and reduced energy in dogs.
With medication to regulate thyroid hormone levels, Cleatus’s body was finally able to function more efficiently. This medical insight was crucial. Weight management is not always just about food quantity. Sometimes hormonal imbalances play a significant role.
A Simple Yet Powerful Diet Change
Once medical issues were addressed, Austin and Laura made practical adjustments to Cleatus’s lifestyle.
Instead of free feeding, they switched to scheduled meals twice a day. They also changed the brand and portion size of his dog food to ensure it met his nutritional needs without excess calories.
Portion control is one of the most effective tools in canine weight management. Veterinary nutritionists emphasize that even small reductions in daily caloric intake can lead to steady, sustainable weight loss over time.
Within just four weeks, they noticed visible changes. Cleatus began moving more easily. His energy improved. He showed renewed interest in walks and playtime.
The Results: Nearly Half His Weight
After several months of consistent effort, Cleatus weighed approximately 16.8 pounds. While still larger than the breed average, this represented nearly half of his original body weight.
The transformation was dramatic. Photos showed a visibly slimmer, brighter eyed dog who could walk, explore, and enjoy daily life again.
Importantly, the weight loss was achieved gradually and under veterinary guidance. Rapid weight loss in dogs can be risky, so a controlled, monitored plan is always recommended.
The Broader Issue of Pet Obesity
Cleatus’s story reflects a widespread issue. According to data frequently referenced by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, a significant percentage of dogs and cats in the United States are classified as overweight or obese.
Excess weight in pets can increase the risk of joint strain, heart issues, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Yet many owners may not realize their pet is overweight because gradual gain can be difficult to notice.
Education plays a key role. As Laura noted publicly, many owners are unaware that weight problems can be corrected with proper guidance.
Compassion Over Blame
It is easy for online audiences to judge pet owners when transformation stories surface. However, Cleatus’s case illustrates the importance of understanding rather than assigning fault.
Pets cannot communicate discomfort directly. Weight gain can happen slowly, influenced by diet, limited activity, and medical conditions like hypothyroidism.
What matters most is the response. Once the issue was identified, Austin and Laura took responsible action. They sought veterinary care, implemented changes, and remained consistent.
The Emotional Impact of Transformation
Beyond the numbers on the scale, the most meaningful change was Cleatus’s regained vitality. Being able to walk, explore outdoors, and engage with his family restored not only his physical health but his emotional wellbeing.
Dogs are naturally active and social animals. When physical limitations prevent them from expressing these instincts, quality of life diminishes. Regaining mobility often leads to improved mood and stronger bonding with caregivers.
A Reminder for Pet Owners
Cleatus’s journey highlights several important lessons:
Regular veterinary checkups can detect hidden conditions like thyroid imbalance.
Portion control and scheduled feeding prevent overeating.
Gradual lifestyle changes are more sustainable than drastic measures.
Compassionate awareness is key to long term pet health.
Each pet is unique, and weight management plans should always be tailored with professional guidance.
Conclusion: Curiosity, Care, and Commitment
Cleatus’s transformation from 35 pounds to 16.8 pounds is more than a striking before and after story. It is a testament to the power of informed care and patient commitment.
Science explains how metabolism and hormones affect weight. Veterinary medicine provides tools for safe treatment. Human compassion supplies the motivation to act.
Stories like this resonate because they reflect a universal desire to protect those who depend on us. When we look closely, ask questions, and seek expert advice, positive change becomes possible.
In the end, Cleatus did not just lose weight. He regained movement, energy, and joy. And perhaps that is the true measure of transformation not the number on a scale, but the return of a happy, active life.
Sources
Newsner. “Total transformation! Chihuahua too overweight to walk loses almost half his 35 pound weight.”
American Veterinary Medical Association. Canine hypothyroidism overview.
American Kennel Club. Chihuahua breed standards and health information.
Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. U.S. pet obesity statistics.
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