Obesity affects an estimated 40-60% of indoor cats in the US, causing chronic welfare impairment from reduced mobility, joint pain, and metabolic disease, with successful weight loss dramatically improving quality of life.
Feline obesity is a major welfare concern hiding in plain sight. Obese cats experience reduced mobility that limits jumping, climbing, grooming, and play - all welfare-relevant activities. Arthritis is more common and more severe in obese cats. The risk of diabetes is significantly elevated. Hepatic lipidosis - a life-threatening liver condition triggered by rapid weight loss or anorexia - paradoxically means that addressing obesity requires careful management. The dramatic welfare improvement after successful weight loss - cats that resume playing, jumping, and social engagement they had abandoned - demonstrates the welfare burden obesity creates. Prevention through appropriate feeding and environmental activity is far preferable to treatment.