Over 50% of dogs and cats in developed countries are overweight or obese, causing significant pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lifespan.
Companion animal obesity is a welfare crisis driven largely by well-intentioned overfeeding and insufficient exercise. Excess weight places chronic stress on joints, heart, respiratory system, and other organs, causing pain and reducing quality of life. Many owners interpret food as love, struggle to resist begging behavior, or simply do not recognize obesity in their pets. Veterinarians play a crucial role in objective assessment and motivational counseling to help owners make changes that improve their animals welfare and longevity.