The Rising Rate of Pet Obesity: What Does it Mean for Your Dog or Cat?

Are you living with an obese pet? Many people are. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over half of all cats and dogs in this country are overweight or obese - and the number is growing, paralleling the rise of obesity in humans. What does this rise in pet obesity mean for your furry friends?

The Problem of Obese Pets

The Association for Pet Obesity has been chronicling the rise in pet obesity by conducting yearly surveys. Only 10% of dogs were obese in 2007, but in 2010 the number rose to 20%. Cats are also dealing with weight issues. Over the past four years the number of obese cats has risen from 19% to 22%. This doesn't include dogs and cats that are only overweight. These trends have veterinarians concerned, especially those who practice preventive pet care.

What are the dangers of dog and cat obesity? As in humans, carrying around too much weight shortens the lives of canine and felines alike - not to mention it makes life harder for them by placing additional stress and strain on their joints.

As Dr. Elizabeth Lund, a veterinarian researcher and veterinary surgeon, points out that the majority of joint problems in dogs are related to their weight - and additional weight puts strain on ligaments and on discs in the back too. Not only does it stress the joints to carry around additional weight, fat cells produce inflammatory factors that can make already established joint problems worse.

Other Risks of Pet Obesity

Cat and dog obesity can cause more serious problems too. Dogs that are obese have an increased risk of heart and lung problems. The extra fat they carry around puts pressure on their diaphragm, which makes it more difficult to expand the lungs.

Like humans, overweight and obese dogs are more susceptible to diabetes and fatty liver. They usually lack energy and have problems tolerating heat. It's quite a burden carrying around that excess weight on only four legs

Sadly, obesity shortens their lifespan too. One study carried by Purina on dog obesity and longevity found giving a dog a diet that keeps them leaner prolongs their lifespan by an average of 1.8 years. If the average dog lives to be 12, that's a 15% increase.

Dog and Cat Obesity: The Bottom Line?

If you're giving your pet too many "treats" you're not doing them any favors. Those treats that taste so good now can make it harder for them to get around and to breathe as excess fat hinders the movement of their diaphragm. Some dog breeds are prone to hip and back problems, and obesity only makes the problem worse. Next time your dog or cat begs for a treat, do them a favor and give them a tummy rub instead.

References:

The Animal Hospital of Lynchburg. "Pet Obesity"

Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. (APOP)