Obesity affects over 50% of companion dogs and cats in developed countries, causing chronic pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lifespan through preventable diet and lifestyle factors.
Pet obesity causes chronic, often unrecognized suffering. Arthritic joints bearing excess weight cause persistent pain that reduces activity and enjoyment of life. Obese pets are less able to engage in play, social interaction, and natural behaviors. Many owners associate a well-fed appearance with good care, inadvertently overfeeding out of affection. Because pets cannot advocate for their own dietary needs, preventing and treating obesity is an owner responsibility with direct welfare implications. Regular veterinary body condition assessments and portion-controlled feeding are effective and underused interventions.