Companion Animal Obesity Prevention

Pet obesity is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in companion animals, with overweight dogs and cats facing significantly reduced quality of life and lifespan.

Key Facts

An estimated 40-60% of UK pet dogs and cats are overweight or obese
Obese dogs have lifespans an average of 2.5 years shorter than healthy weight dogs
Obesity in cats is strongly linked to diabetes mellitus, urinary tract disease, and arthritis
The primary driver of companion animal obesity is overfeeding combined with insufficient exercise
Veterinary discussion of pet weight remains inadequate, with many vets reluctant to raise the issue
Body condition scoring (BCS) is the most accessible and accurate method for assessing pet weight at home

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal obesity causes chronic pain, reduced mobility, metabolic disease, and premature death, representing a significant welfare problem that is almost entirely preventable. The emotional dimensions of food-sharing between owners and pets make weight management conversations challenging, but veterinary teams and welfare organisations have developed effective communication strategies. Regular body condition monitoring, portion control, and appropriate exercise are the cornerstones of obesity prevention.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet to body condition score your pet at every visit and show you how to do it at home
Measure food portions rather than estimating - use the feeding guide on the food packaging as a starting point
Replace food treats with play and attention rewards where possible
Ensure your dog receives adequate daily exercise appropriate to their breed and age
If your pet is overweight, work with your vet on a gradual, monitored weight loss programme