Obesity affects approximately half of companion dogs and cats in the UK and US, causing significant health problems and reduced quality of life.
Pet obesity is simultaneously a common and commonly underappreciated welfare problem. Overweight and obese pets experience real suffering: joint pain from increased loading on arthritic joints, breathing difficulties in brachycephalic breeds, heat intolerance, and the systemic effects of metabolic disease. Their lifespan is measurably shorter, and their quality of life during that reduced lifespan is impaired. Yet owners frequently do not recognize their pet as overweight — studies show owners consistently underestimate their pet's body condition score compared to veterinary assessment. Addressing pet obesity requires both honest veterinary communication about body condition and owner engagement with the emotional factors around food and feeding. Obesity is almost always a treatable condition with appropriate diet management and owner commitment.