Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in companion animals, affecting an estimated 40-50% of dogs and cats in the UK. It causes chronic pain, reduces lifespan, and compromises quality of life through multiple mechanisms.
Obesity causes genuine, chronic suffering through joint pain, exercise intolerance, and breathing difficulties. Obese animals have reduced ability to engage in natural activities including play, exploration, and movement. The normalisation of overweight body condition means many owners are unaware their pet is suffering from a preventable condition. Veterinary weight management support, combined with owner education about body condition scoring, can address this widespread welfare problem. Prevention through appropriate portion control from puppyhood and kittenhood is far more effective than treatment.