Obesity is the most common preventable welfare problem in companion animals, affecting an estimated 40-60% of pet dogs and cats. The welfare implications of chronic obesity are significant and multifactorial.
Companion animal obesity welfare is compounded by the emotional dimension of overfeeding - owners often express affection through food, making dietary restriction feel emotionally difficult. Veterinary reluctance to raise obesity with owners allows the welfare problem to persist and worsen. Welfare-positive weight management requires honest body condition assessment, a structured feeding plan, appropriate exercise increases, and owner education about healthy weight ranges. Chronic obesity reduces both the quantity and quality of animals' lives - it is among the most impactful welfare interventions available to companion animal owners and vets.