Obesity in pets occurs when excessive adipose tissue accumulates in the body, and is generally defined as occurring when an animal’s body weight is at least 20% greater than its optimal body weight. Obesity is associated with metabolic and hormonal changes, and can predispose pets to illnesses like orthopedic disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Obesity is when your pet has too much body fat and it has a negative impact on their health, welfare and quality of life. We believe obesity is a serious welfare issue in pets, because it can cause suffering and can be extremely disabling. It’s also likely to affect your pet’s ability to do their normal activities, like exercise.
Health problems caused by pet obesity
Pet obesity can cause serious health problems, and make existing problems worse, which can reduce the length and quality of your pet’s life. It puts them at greater risk of conditions such as:
Is your pet at risk of obesity?
Several factors can make obesity more likely in your pet. For example, in dogs:
- Breed – certain breeds have a higher risk.
- Age – the risk increases with age.
- Neuter status – neutered dogs are more at risk.
- Sex – apart from older dogs, obesity is reported to be more common in females.
- Obese owner – may lead to having an obese dog as it may be exercised less, or less able to recognise obesity.
Other animals have similar risk factors for obesity.
What Causes Obesity in Pets?
Obesity occurs when pets consume more calories than they burn. Contributing factors include:
- Overfeeding: Large portion sizes and frequent treats add up quickly.
- Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain.
- Age: Older pets are less active and may gain weight more easily.
- Breed: Certain breeds are more prone to obesity due to their genetics.
Health Risks of Obesity
Excess weight can lead to several health issues, such as:
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Diabetes
- Heart and respiratory problems
- Reduced life expectancy
- Increased risk of surgical complications
Addressing obesity is not just about appearance—it’s about improving your pet’s overall health and well-being.
How to Manage Your Pet’s Weight:
- Assess Their Diet: Work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your pet. Switch to a weight management formula if necessary.
- Portion Control: Measure your pet’s food to avoid overfeeding. Treats should not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.
- Increase Physical Activity: Incorporate daily walks, playtime, or interactive toys to keep your pet active.
- Monitor Progress: Regularly weigh your pet to track their progress and make adjustments as needed.
Causes
Weight gain will occur when an animal is in a positive energy balance, meaning energy provided as calories in the diet exceed calories expended. Evidence suggests that middle-aged cats and dogs, especially those between the ages of 5 and 10, may be at an increased risk of obesity. This is supported by studies showing that as cats age from 2 years to approximately 11.5 years of age their energy requirements decrease. Weight gain will occur if calories from the diet do not decrease with the animal’s energy requirements.
Obesity in pets is usually due to excessive food intake or lack of physical exercise. Owners may view food as a way to reward and treat their pets, which contributes to overfeeding. Pets confined to a house or small yard which are not regularly exercised are more prone to obesity.
The risk of obesity in dogs (but not in cats) can be related to whether or not their owners are obese. The main factor seems to be obese owners not walking their dogs as much.
- Medications: Certain medications, like phenobarbital (used for seizures) and some corticosteroids, can increase appetite or affect fat distribution, leading to weight gain.
In conclusion, pet obesity is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. By understanding these causes, pet owners can take proactive steps to help their animals maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health problems.
Other Factors:
- Age:Older pets may have a slower metabolism and reduced activity levels, making them more susceptible.
- Spaying or Neutering:While beneficial for health and population control, spaying and neutering can sometimes lead to weight gain due to hormonal changes that affect metabolism and appetite, says Better Pet.
Pet Obesity – Summary
Definition
Pet obesity is the accumulation of excess body fat that leads to an animal’s body weight being at least 20% above its ideal weight. It’s one of the most common nutritional disorders in companion animals.
Causes
- Overfeeding – High-calorie diets, frequent treats, or unrestricted feeding.
- Lack of exercise – Sedentary lifestyle, especially in indoor pets.
- Neutering/Spaying – May slightly slow metabolism and increase appetite.
- Age – Older pets are less active and may burn fewer calories.
- Breed predisposition – Certain breeds (e.g., Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Persian cats) are more prone.
- Medical conditions – Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or other endocrine disorders.
Health Risks
- Shortened lifespan (by up to 2 years in dogs and cats)
- Joint problems (arthritis, hip dysplasia)
- Heart disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Respiratory difficulties
- Reduced heat tolerance
- Increased anesthesia risks
- Lower quality of life
Diagnosis
- Body Condition Scoring (BCS): A 1–9 or 1–5 scale assessing fat coverage and waistline.
- Weight history: Comparing with breed standards and previous healthy weight.
- Veterinary examination: Checking for underlying medical issues.
Management
- Calorie control – Measure food portions, use weight-loss diets.
- Exercise – Regular walks, play sessions, and activity enrichment.
- Treat moderation – Low-calorie treats or healthy alternatives.
- Monitoring – Monthly weigh-ins and BCS assessments.
- Medical treatment – If obesity is secondary to a disease, address the underlying cause.
Prevention
- Feed according to ideal body weight, not current weight.
- Encourage daily physical activity.
- Avoid over-reliance on treats as rewards.
- Educate all household members on portion control.
Key take away:
Pet obesity is preventable and reversible with proper nutrition, exercise, and owner awareness. Early intervention can add years to a pet’s life and improve their comfort and happiness.
If you want, I can also create a visual quick-reference chart for pet obesity with risk factors, BCS guide, and management tips. That could be handy for owners or veterinary clients.
Pet Obesity – Quick FAQs
1. What causes pet obesity?
Overfeeding, high-calorie treats, and lack of exercise.
2. Why is obesity dangerous for pets?
It increases the risk of diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and shorter lifespan.
3. How do I know if my pet is overweight?
You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs easily; from above, they should have a waist.
4. How can I help my pet lose weight?
Controlled portions, healthy diet, and regular exercise.
5. Can obesity be prevented?
Yes—feed balanced meals, limit treats, and keep your pet active.
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