Obesity is the most common preventable disease in companion animals, causing chronic pain, shortened lifespan, and reduced quality of life, yet it remains significantly underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Pet obesity causes genuine physical suffering through joint pain, exercise intolerance, and associated diseases, yet is often perceived as harmless or even positive by owners who associate food with love and care. The welfare impact is significant - overweight pets show reduced activity, altered gait, and signs consistent with chronic discomfort. Veterinary communication about obesity must be sensitive to owner feelings while being honest about welfare implications. Prevention starting in puppyhood or kittenhood is far more effective than treating established obesity.