Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

54 Percent of Pets in the U.S. Are Overweight or Obese, Study Says

By Kyla Gardner | October 8, 2014 3:03pm
Logan's Weight Loss Story
View Full Caption
DNAinfo/Kyla Gardner

CHICAGO — It's National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, and chances are good your pet is a little chunky, whether you're aware of it or not.

The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention says that about 54 percent of pets need to lose a few pounds.

Compared to humans, a few pounds of extra body weight can signify a significant weight problem in a pet. A 15-pound cat is comparable to a 218-pound, 5-foot-4 woman — or 254-pound, 5-foot-9 man — according to the association.

Results from a 2013 study found that about 53 percent of dogs are overweight or obese — that's 43.8 million dogs in the U.S. The study found that about 58 percent of cats — or 55 million — are overweight.

Chicago veterinarians say that weight gain is common in winter — as both pets and their owners are more reluctant to step outside for a walk — but last winter, "Chiberia" was especially bad for city dogs' weight.

Pets carrying extra pounds can be more susceptible to osteoarthritis, insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and respiratory disease, kidney disease, some forms of cancer and decreased life expectancy.

Veterinarians recommend swapping out regular snacks for fruit or vegetables that are healthy but filling, and getting in extra indoor play with your pet during the winter.

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: