Feline Obesity: A Growing Welfare Crisis

Cat obesity has reached epidemic proportions in developed countries, causing significant welfare harm through joint disease, diabetes, and shortened lifespan.

Key Facts

An estimated 40-50% of cats in the UK are overweight or obese
Obesity increases the risk of diabetes mellitus, hepatic lipidosis, and osteoarthritis
Cats are designed to eat multiple small meals and are poorly adapted to once-daily large portions
Free feeding dried food is a primary driver of feline obesity
Weight loss in cats must be managed carefully to avoid dangerous hepatic lipidosis

Welfare Considerations

Obese cats live with chronic musculoskeletal discomfort and reduced ability to groom, play, and jump, all of which are important welfare activities. The comorbidities of obesity including diabetes cause additional suffering and require lifelong management. Owner tendency to equate food with love, combined with limited owner education about healthy cat weight, has driven the obesity epidemic. Veterinary guidance and owner education are the primary tools for addressing this significant welfare challenge.

What You Can Do

Assess your cat's body condition score using a veterinary body condition chart
Consult your vet about appropriate daily caloric intake for your cat's age and weight
Avoid free-feeding dried food which makes caloric management difficult
Use puzzle feeders that slow food consumption and provide cognitive stimulation
Follow a vet-supervised weight loss plan rather than restricting food independently