Obesity affects over half of dogs and cats in developed countries, causing pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lifespan — making it one of the most common and preventable companion animal welfare problems.
Companion animal obesity causes sustained welfare harm through multiple pathways. Excess weight accelerates joint degeneration, causing chronic pain and reduced mobility — a particularly significant welfare impact since animals cannot communicate discomfort effectively. The inflammation associated with adipose tissue causes systemic effects including immune dysfunction and increased disease susceptibility. Obese cats are at high risk for diabetes and urinary disease. Beyond physical harms, obesity reduces animals' ability to play, explore, and engage in positive natural behaviors, diminishing positive welfare dimensions. Weight management requires owner education and commitment — but because obesity is largely preventable through appropriate feeding and exercise, it represents an important area where individual owners can make meaningful welfare improvements.