Companion Animal Obesity and Welfare

Pet obesity is reaching epidemic proportions and causes significant chronic welfare harm to affected animals.

Key Facts

An estimated 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the US are overweight or obese
Obesity in pets causes arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and reduced lifespan
Owners often fail to recognize that their pets are overweight
Veterinarians sometimes avoid discussing pet weight to prevent offense to owners
Obesity is now the most common preventable disease in companion animals in wealthy countries

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal obesity represents a welfare crisis hidden in plain sight. Overweight animals experience reduced mobility, chronic joint pain, difficulty breathing, and shortened lives — suffering that is entirely preventable through appropriate feeding and exercise. The owner-animal bond that creates obesity (overfeeding as love expression) also creates barriers to addressing it. Veterinary communication training and owner education programs that reframe appropriate weight as a welfare and love issue have shown promise in reducing pet obesity rates.

What You Can Do

Have your veterinarian assess your pet's body condition score annually
Follow feeding guidelines based on body condition rather than appetite
Provide regular appropriate exercise for companion animals
Support veterinary education programs that train effective weight management communication
Share information about pet obesity as a welfare issue with fellow pet owners