Companion Animals

Companion Animal Obesity Prevention and Management

Companion animal obesity is the most common nutritional disease in dogs and cats, causing significant health and welfare impacts.

Key Facts

An estimated 50-60% of dogs and cats in Western countries are overweight or obese
Obesity causes joint pain, reduced mobility, respiratory compromise and shortened lifespan
Owners frequently underestimate their pet's body condition, normalising excess weight
Structured weight loss programmes combining caloric restriction and exercise achieve sustainable outcomes
Breed-specific body condition scoring recognises variation in ideal weight between breeds

Welfare Considerations

Obesity imposes chronic welfare costs: joint pain from excess load, exercise intolerance limiting natural behaviour, and elevated risk of multiple diseases. The fact that many owners are unaware of the problem makes veterinary communication about body condition scoring essential at every consultation. Prevention is far more effective than treatment.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet to assess your pet's body condition score at every check-up
Feed measured portions rather than estimated amounts or ad libitum feeding
Resist using food as the primary form of affection - use play and attention
Seek veterinary guidance for structured weight loss rather than self-managing