Obesity is the most common preventable condition in companion animals in developed countries, causing chronic pain and disease that significantly reduces quality and length of life.
Obesity in companion animals represents a hidden welfare crisis. An overweight dog with arthritic joints experiences chronic pain affecting every aspect of daily life — movement, rest, play and social interaction. Yet owners often do not recognise obesity in their pets, partly because cultural norms have shifted toward heavier body condition being seen as normal. The condition is directly caused by human behaviour — feeding choices, exercise routines, treat habits — making it entirely preventable. Vets frequently report difficulty raising obesity with owners because of sensitivity around the topic. Welfare improvement requires normalising honest weight assessment conversations and providing owners with practical, non-judgmental guidance.