Obesity affects over half of companion animals in many countries and causes significant welfare harm. Prevention through appropriate feeding and exercise is simpler than treatment.
Companion animal obesity has reached crisis proportions in most developed countries, yet it receives inadequate attention relative to its welfare impact. Obese animals experience chronic joint pain from excess weight bearing, reduced exercise tolerance that further limits movement, and metabolic disease that reduces quality of life and lifespan. The causes are well-understood: calorie-dense food, inadequate exercise, and owners who misinterpret overweight body condition as normal because it is so prevalent. The solutions are similarly well-understood: measured food portions rather than free-feeding, regular physical activity, and veterinary guidance on appropriate body condition score. The primary barrier is owner motivation and education — many owners are unaware their animal is overweight or underestimate the welfare significance of excess weight.