That extra treat here and there for your pet might not seem like a big deal until those few pounds become a serious health problem. Animal Hospital of Fort Lauderdale has seen many cats and dogs affected by excess weight, and with obesity, a surge in chronic illnesses that could often be prevented. Pet obesity is a medical condition with far-reaching consequences. Here’s what every pet owner should understand.

Pet Obesity in the United States

Pet obesity or even just being overweight has become a common health condition in dogs and cats. In a survey of pet owners for 2024, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found that 33% of cat owners and 35% of dog owners reported their pet as being overweight or obese. Sedentary lifestyles, overfeeding, and high-calorie treats are contributing factors, especially in indoor or older pets. And just like in humans, the longer obesity goes unmanaged, the more likely it is to trigger or worsen other health issues.

Chronic Conditions Linked to Pet Obesity

There are many health effects that have been linked to obesity in cats and dogs. These are just some of the health issues excess weight could cause or worsen in your pet.

• Arthritis and Joint Pain: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, leading to inflammation, cartilage damage, and accelerated joint degeneration. Even a few extra pounds can worsen arthritis pain and discourage physical activity, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.
• Diabetes: Overweight cats and sometimes dogs have an increased risk of diabetes. This chronic condition often requires daily insulin injections, ongoing monitoring, and diet regulation, something that could often be avoided with early weight management.
• Heart Disease: Obesity can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol, contributing to cardiovascular stress. Extra weight can worsen pre-existing heart conditions or increase the risk of pets developing them over time.
• Respiratory Issues: Carrying excess weight makes breathing more difficult, especially for short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds. This can lead to poor oxygenation and reluctance to exercise.
• Liver Disease: Obese pets are more prone to developing hepatic lipidosis, particularly in overweight cats. This condition is serious and potentially life-threatening if not caught early.

How Can I Tell if My Pet is Overweight?

A healthy pet should have a visible waistline when viewed from above, a tummy tuck (not a sagging belly) when viewed from the side, and ribs that can be felt easily under a thin layer of fat. Even with those guidelines, it can be difficult for some pet owners to tell if their pet is overweight until their companion has gotten obese.

The best way to know is to talk to your pet’s veterinarian during their annual wellness exam or schedule a consultation for weight management. A vet will understand where your pet stands and what their ideal weight range should be. You can bring in information about your companion’s daily food and exercise to have a deeper discussion about the health of your pet. The veterinarian will also be able to run diagnostics in case there is a health condition causing the weight gain.

Veterinary Weight Management in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Obesity doesn’t happen overnight, and it can be prevented and managed with the right veterinary support. Animal Hospital of Fort Lauderdale has weight management services for pets in Fort Lauderdale and from neighboring Florida areas like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Oakland Park, and Wilton Manors. If you are concerned about your pet’s weight, schedule a consultation at Animal Hospital of Fort Lauderdale.