Dog & Cat Obesity: Management & Prevention

Obesity is a common problem in domestic pets, but it is preventable. While spoiling our fur babies, it is important to consider their health and provide them with a complete and balanced diet, as well as regular exercise.

This information will help you understand obesity and its effects, and how to prevent obesity in your pet.

A bit about obesity

• Obesity is the accumulation of excessive amounts of fat
• Obesity is most commonly due to an energy intake that exceeds energy expenditure
• Certain diseases and medications can also lead to obesity

Once an animal becomes obese, it can be difficult for them to return to a normal body weight. If you are concerned, it is important to discuss this with your vet as soon as possible.

How do I know if my pet is overweight?

It is important to monitor your pet’s weight and body condition. Animals are considered overweight when they are 10-20% above their ideal body weight and obese if greater than 20% above. Some important features of a healthy body condition include:

• Ribs and backbone are easily felt, but not visible
• They have a clear waist as seen from above and from the side

Assessing your dog or cat’s body condition

The diagram below outlines the ideal body condition for your dog or cat.

Some factors associated with obesity

Obesity is caused by excessive intake of food, without the necessary energy output. However, there are some factors that are important to consider that could make your pet prone to obesity, including:

• Indoor and apartment pets
• ‘Help-yourself’ or ad lib feeding, particularly in cats
• Osteoarthritis or other diseases that reduce mobility
• Large and giant breed dogs have a higher risk of obesity along with selected small breeds including short-faced breeds
• Desexing - this results in a decreased energy requirement and subsequently required daily food intake
• Mixed breed cats
• Endocrine disease e.g. hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism

There is an association between obesity and cancer, and in a veterinary setting, obese patients have a higher risk of anaesthetic and surgical complications.

Does being obese harm your pet?

Obesity can lead to a reduced lifespan and poorer quality of life. Obesity leads to exercise intolerance and lethargy, and can also increase the incidence of:

• Osteoarthritis – through an increased strain on bones and joints due to increased weight
• Pancreatitis – fatty tissue promotes inflammation, to which the pancreas is susceptible
• Diabetes mellitus – excess fatty tissue causes insulin resistance or can be secondary to pancreatitis
• Heart failure and circulatory problems – due to hard work to push blood around the extra body weight in an obese animal
• Airway constriction and tracheal collapse – due to the physical effects of excess fatty tissue around the airways
• Urinary tract infections – due to excess fatty tissue interfering with the normal process of urinating
• Liver disorders – buildup of fatty tissue in the liver leads to decreased liver function
• Skin conditions - due to the buildup of debris between skin folds and secondary bacterial infections
• Coat problems - due to difficulty grooming
• Heatstroke – fatty tissue generates more heat

Managing and preventing obesity

Weight loss

• Any underlying medical conditions should be recognised and considered before changing diets or reducing food intake
• It is important that weight loss programs are carried out under the close supervision of a veterinarian
• It is crucial that weight loss is gradual. Starvation, or a sudden reduction in food intake, forces the body to move large amounts of fat into the liver for conversion to energy in place of energy from food. This leads to a build-up of fat in the liver, known as hepatic lipidosis, which can interfere with the normal functioning of this important organ

It is important to avoid malnutrition and obesity in growing puppies and kittens. Obesity as a puppy or kitten can lead to difficulty in maintaining a health bodyweight in adulthood.

Activities and Exercise

Regular physical activity is important for a healthy pet. All pets need to engage in daily activities, which not only provide exercise, but also mental stimulation.

• For cats, this can involve chasing toys, walks on a leash, food games, or an activity platform
• For dogs, there are a variety of activities, from walking or running, to chasing a ball, agility training, dancing and swimming

Diet and Treats

The best nutrition is a premium quality commercial food, which provides a complete and balanced diet.

• Pets that are fed human foods and table scraps are at a higher risk of developing obesity, along with other disorders such as pancreatitis and allergies
• For cats that are given food ad lib, measure out the daily amount, then divide this it into 2-4 smaller meals throughout the day
• Cats that hunt are able to supplement their diet – keep cats inside at night or attach a bell to their collar

It is important to discuss with your veterinarian the most suitable diet for your pet’s energy requirements, breed, age and any underlying diseases, and refer to the specific feeding guidelines on their food.

Pets love treats and they are very useful training aids. However:

• Some common dog treats are packed with energy. Treats are not to be given in addition
• Other options include feeding their usual dry diet as treats or pieces of raw vegetables, such as carrots or pumpkin