Obesity is currently the most common nutritional disorder that occurs in companion animals in the United States. Surveys have reported incidence rates of between 24% and 34% in adult dogs. One of the most recent studies collected information on almost 130,000 dogs and cats from 55 private veterinary practices in 33 states. Results showed that 27% of dogs were judged to be overweight or obese. The proportion of overweight/obese pets peaked during middle age (over 45%), while geriatric pets and young adults were much less likely to be obese.
In addition, dogs that are overweight when they are adolescents are more likely to be overweight and or obese as asults. It can be theorized that the incidence of obesity in dogs has increased because a sedentary lifestyle has become the norm rather than the exception for many dogs. In addition, the provision of highly palatable and energy-dense foods may further contribute to the energy imbalance that leads to obesity.
Until recently, it was generally believed that obesity in cats was less prevalent. One of the first surveys conducted reported an incidence rate of only 9% in pet cats. However, the incidence of obesity in cats appears to have increased dramatically within the past 10 years. Increased popularity of the cat as a house pet, decreased daily activity of cats confined indoors may be responsible for cat obesity.
Obesity is a clinical syndrome that involves the excess accumulation of body fat. Obesity is considered the most common form of malnutrition in small animal practice. Indeed, surveys suggest that 25% to 40% of cats and dogs presented to veterinary clinics are obese. The significance of obesity pertains to its role in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases and to its ability to exacerbate preexisting disease.
Obesity has been associated with an increased incidence of arthritis, diabetes, hepatic lipidosis, feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), urine incontinence in spayed bitches, constipation, dermatitis, cardiovascular problems, respiratory problems, and increased anesthetic and surgical risk. In addition, Scarlett and colleague (1998 found a threefold increase in risk of death in obese middle-aged cats when compared to the risk in lean middle-aged cats.)
More information at: Dogs & Cats Health.
