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60% of cats and dogs are obese
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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The obesity epidemic in the US is going beyond the “human” limits – now animals are suffering from the problem of excess weight too. Pets not only live in perfect harmony with their owners, but also often share their habits and diet, and if we add a sedentary lifestyle (for example, due to the owner’s boundless love, who is afraid to let his pet out for a walk), it turns out that pets and their owners gain weight together.
To address this issue, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine has opened the first clinic specifically for pets, where qualified veterinary nutritionists will provide care for them.
Research shows that up to 60% of cats and dogs are obese. A recent survey of pet owners puts the figure as high as 70%.
Clinic director, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Deborah Linder, says: "With the help of sound impact methods, experienced veterinarians will help pets effectively and safely get rid of extra pounds. There is an opinion that fat, well-fed pets are happy animals, but research proves the opposite. We will try to correct this problem."
The Cummings School’s research, as well as other studies, have confirmed that obesity is a serious problem for animals. Although dogs and cats are not prone to coronary heart disease, one of the leading causes of death in humans and often caused by excess weight, they are susceptible to other health conditions that obesity can contribute to, such as diabetes, orthopedic problems, and respiratory complications. Obesity also reduces overall quality of life and life expectancy.
The clinic's staff predicts that by 2015 the number of their patients will increase to 600 per year.
The treatment will be carried out in two directions, depending on the health of the animal. An effective weight loss method will be applied to pets diagnosed with obesity or overweight. The second method will be aimed at treating animals that suffer from other diseases in addition to obesity. The course of treatment will also include preventive talks with the owners of the patients.