Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Companion animal obesity: a silent epidemic?
- Journal:
- Companion Animal
- Year:
- 2014
- Authors:
- Boland, Zara
- Affiliation:
- Practising clinical vet and founding director of Vet Voice
Abstract
Veterinary estimation in the UK puts the number of overweight or obese dogs at 45% and that of cats at 40%. The actual figures may well be higher than this and are thought to have reached 55% of all dogs and cats in the USA. There are numerous risk factors that predispose to obesity, and the resultant effects on health, longevity and quality of life are diverse and severe. Body condition scoring is both a simple and an excellent tool to assess patients and empower clients to take control. Currently, specially formulated weight loss diets combined with appropriate exercise and lifestyle changes remain the mainstay of veterinary treatment.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.12968/coan.2014.19.5.240