Obesity Growing Among Dogs and Cats

Obesity rates are rising among pets and more than half of cats and dogs are overweight or obese according to Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

Obesity Facts and Risks 

• 54% of Dogs and Cats in the United States are Overweight 
• 21% of US Dogs and Cats are Overtly Obese 
• 55.6% of US Dogs are Overweight 
• 20% of US Dogs are Overtly Obese 
• 54% of US Cats are Overweight
• 22% of US Cats are Overtly Obese

All of this data is taken from a 2010 study reported by theAssociation for Pet Obesity Prevention - click here to view the 2010 Pet Obesity Study.

Just as obesity does in humans, extra pounds can lead to adverse health conditions in animals. The most common side effects of obesity seen in dogs and cats include the following concurrent problems.

Primary Risks of Excess Weight in Pets

• Diabetes mellitus
• Insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome
• High blood pressure
• Heart and respiratory diseases
• Osteoarthitis and other joint problems
• Kidney Disease
• Many Forms of Cancer
• Decreased life expectancy (up to 2.5 years)

Veterinarians advise owners looking help their pets trim down to replace traditional treats with healthier choices. It's also a good idea to switch to a lower-calorie diet, and add more exercise. To learn more, I'd strongly recommend that you go to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention website.