Companion Animals

Companion Animal Obesity Prevention

The welfare impacts of companion animal obesity and evidence-based approaches to prevention and management.

Key Facts

Over 50% of dogs and cats in Western countries are overweight or obese
Obesity reduces lifespan and increases risk of arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease
Many owners cannot recognize when their pet is overweight due to normalization
Calorie restriction combined with exercise achieves weight loss in most cases
Weight management clinics at veterinary practices improve long-term outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal obesity is a welfare epidemic driven by overfeeding and insufficient exercise. Obese animals experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, and shortened lives. The welfare impact of obesity is often invisible to owners who associate body size with health.

What You Can Do

Use body condition scoring to assess your pet's weight objectively
Consult your vet for a targeted weight management plan if your pet is overweight
Measure food portions and limit treats rather than relying on ad-lib feeding