Veterinarians explain causes signs and simple steps to manage pet weight.
Pet obesity has become one of the most common health concerns seen during routine veterinary visits, alongside dental disease. Nearly 60 percent of pets in the United States are considered overweight, which can reduce overall life expectancy and increase the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and joint problems.
“Obesity can decrease overall life expectancy and contribute to development of chronic conditions such as diabetes and osteoarthritis,” said Dr. Gene Pavlovsky, director of the Dr. John A. Coyne South Clinic at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Like in humans, excess weight often develops gradually and may go unnoticed by pet owners.
Modern pet food has greatly improved animal health and lifespan, but it has also contributed to weight gain. Many commercial pet foods contain a high number of calories in small portions, making overfeeding easy.
Even a few extra cups of food can be too much for some pets. Reading pet food labels and understanding portion sizes are important steps in preventing weight gain.
Managing pet weight often starts with adjusting feeding habits. Some pets benefit from switching to food with lower calorie density, while others need smaller portions of their regular diet.
Treats and table scraps can significantly increase calorie intake, so owners are encouraged to choose healthier alternatives. Fresh vegetables, small fruit portions, and plain snacks are often lower in calorie options for dogs.
“No. It’s important to remember that a pet’s weight is not a reflection on your ability to care for them,” said Dr. Pavlovsky. Given the many demands of work and family and the difficulty of interpreting pet food labels, Dr. Pavlovsky recognizes how complicated it can be to attend to a pet’s nutritional status. Instead of blaming yourself, Dr. Pavlovsky advises, “focus on what you can do moving forward.”
Exercise supports weight management but cannot replace proper feeding controls. Overfeeding plays a larger role in obesity than lack of activity. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys help dogs stay active.
Cats may need creative strategies such as scheduled play sessions, climbing structures, or placing food in different areas to encourage movement.
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