Today, more than 50% of dogs and cats in Europe are estimated to be overweight or obese. What is often seen as simply "cute" or a sign of a healthy appetite is in fact a complex condition that shortens our companions' life expectancy by two years on average. Obesity is not just about looks: it is chronic inflammation of the whole body.
Why do our pets put on weight?
The mechanism is simple, but the causes are many. Excess weight happens when energy intake (food) exceeds energy output (activity). Several factors encourage this imbalance:
- A sedentary lifestyle: Especially for indoor cats and dogs that only go out to do their business.
- Neutering: It lowers energy needs by around 20% to 30%. If the food ration is not adjusted, fat storage is inevitable.
- Anthropomorphism: Showing love through food ("grandma syndrome") and handing out more and more treats or table scraps.
- Poor nutritional quality: Foods too rich in carbohydrates and low in quality protein are less filling, so the animal begs for more.
Serious health consequences
An obese animal is not a healthy animal. The associated risks are many:
- Diabetes mellitus: Particularly common in overweight cats.
- Joint problems: Excess weight wears out cartilage prematurely (arthritis) and increases the risk of cruciate ligament rupture.
- Heart and breathing problems: The heart has to work harder to supply an oversized body, and fat in the chest makes breathing harder.
- Kidney and liver failure: The organs are overloaded with toxins and fats.
- Anaesthetic risks: If surgery is needed, anaesthesia is much more dangerous for an obese animal.
How can I tell if my pet is overweight?
Do not rely on the number on the scales alone. Vets use the Body Condition Score (BCS), a 1 to 9 scale based on looking and feeling:
- Ribs: You should be able to feel them easily under a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard.
- Waist: Seen from above, there should be a clearly defined waist.
- Belly: Seen from the side, the belly should tuck up towards the back legs, not hang down or run parallel to the ground.
Getting back to a healthy weight with Son Espace Santé
Weight loss must be slow and supervised by a vet (never put your pet on a "crash diet" on your own). The Son Espace Santé app is the ideal tool for this follow-up:
- Weight Curve Tracking: Weigh your pet every 2 weeks. Losing 1% of body weight per week is the ideal safe target.
- Portion Log: Record the exact weight in grams of the ration prescribed by your vet to avoid it creeping up.
- Treat Counter: Become aware of everything your pet eats outside their bowl. That is often where the extra calories hide.
- Activity Log: Record how long walks or play sessions last to make sure they move enough every day.
In short, helping your pet lose weight gives them extra days and years of comfortable life. It is one of the best gifts you can give them to preserve their mobility and their zest for life.
