Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Obesity in dogs and cats: a metabolic and endocrine disorder.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2010
- Authors:
- Zoran, Debra L
- Affiliation:
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
Obesity in dogs and cats means they have too much body fat, and it's becoming a common problem, especially in Western countries. Research shows that at least one in three dogs seen at veterinary clinics is obese, and this number is rising alongside human obesity rates. Being overweight can lead to serious health issues like joint pain, trouble breathing, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even some cancers. It's important for pet owners to recognize and address obesity early, as managing a pet's weight can greatly improve their overall health and lifespan.
Abstract
Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amounts of adipose tissue in the body, and has been called the most common nutritional disease of dogs in Western countries. Most investigators agree that at least 33% of the dogs presented to veterinary clinics are obese, and that the incidence is increasing as human obesity increases in the overall population. Obesity is not just the accumulation of large amounts of adipose tissue, but is associated with important metabolic and hormonal changes in the body, which are the focus of this review. Obesity is associated with a variety of conditions, including osteoarthritis, respiratory distress, glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dystocia, decreased heat tolerance, some forms of cancer, and increased risk of anesthetic and surgical complications. Prevention and early recognition of obesity, as well as correcting obesity when it is present, are essential to appropriate health care, and increases both the quality and quantity of life for pets.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20219485/