Health Risks of Overweight Pets

Just like people, if pets become overweight, they face certain health risks and potential problems. And, just like people, the change does not happen overnight in most cases, but is the result of too much food and too little exercise. Feeding pets too much, giving them too many snacks, handing out treats that are meant for people and not animals, and not giving pets enough playtime or exercise can all contribute to a pet becoming overweight. This creates certain health risks that may or may not be reversible.

  1. Diabetes

    • As with humans, obesity can raise the insulin secretion in pets because of the increased blood glucose levels. If the body's demands for insulin are in excess of the animal's body's ability to make insulin, diabetes can result. This will require long-term health care and intervention but can be lessened or even reversed with proper nutrition and exercise.

    Blood Pressure and Heart Problems

    • Animals who are overweight must work harder to move about, which can place extra strain on the pet's heart. This may result in increased blood pressure, also called hypertension, which in itself can lead to congestive heart failure and may not be reversible. These same animals may also exhibit decreased stamina and heat intolerance.

    Reproductive Problems

    • Overweight animals may have a harder time giving birth than normal-weight animals, which is a condition called dystocia. This may lead to an increased risk of problems during labor and delivery and may lead to the need for a cesarean section birth. A veterinarian is usually required to assist the birth of an animal suffering from dystocia.

    Cancer

    • Obese animals may have a higher risk of some cancers, including bladder and mammary cancers. Once an animal develops cancer, the animal will need a whole new health, nutrition and medical care regime, and, in some cases, the cancer may be fatal.

    Infection Risk

    • Some overweight animals may develop a higher risk of developing certain infections, including canine distemper and salmonella, among others. Once an infection has developed, the animal will require medical care and intervention, and some infections may be fatal if not caught and treated in time.

    Joint Strain

    • When a pet is overweight, the body is under additional strain, which can lead to arthritis and joint problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may make the joints unstable and more prone to injury. If a ligament gets torn, medical care and surgery may be necessary.