OVERFED, UNDERLOVED - The Heavy Truth About Pet Obesity
We’ve all seen them — the pudgy pug, the chunky cat, the sausage dog that’s a little too much sausage and not enough dog. Social media might be flooded with “chonky pet” memes, but here’s the truth: pet obesity is no joke. It’s a health crisis that’s robbing our beloved animals of years of quality life. And unlike other diseases, this one’s preventable. Which means, if we don’t do something… that’s on us.
Real Life Case Study: Meet Bella the Dachshund
Bella’s a sweet little sausage from Cairns with a huge personality — and an even bigger waistline. Her humans loved spoiling her with snacks: a bit of toast crust here, a corner of pizza there — even a lick of ice cream on occasion.
At first, they thought it was adorable. But then the North Queensland summer rolled around.
Bella began struggling in the heat — panting excessively, seeking out the coolest floor tiles, and refusing to go for walks during the day. She couldn’t climb stairs easily, avoided play, and one day yelped going down the steps. Her long back — iconic in the breed — was under immense strain from the excess weight.
A vet confirmed the worst: she was dangerously obese and now at high risk for IVDD (intervertebral disc disease), a painful spinal condition common in dachshunds. But that wasn’t all — further tests revealed early-stage tracheal collapse, a serious condition that makes breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid climates. Bella is now on a strict weight management plan and undergoing treatment to support both her spine and respiratory system.
So far, her care has cost over $1,800 — with ongoing costs for diagnostics, medications, dietary support and specialist treatment still stacking up.
Bella’s story isn’t unique. But it could’ve been avoided.
Obesity Isn’t Cute — It’s Cruel
We’re not here to shame — we’re here to wake people up.
Obesity in pets isn’t a punchline. It leads to:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Liver dysfunction
- Respiratory issues
- Skin disorders
- Increased anaesthetic risk
- Shortened lifespan
- Heat intolerance and stress
And the worst part? Most pets suffer in silence.
They don’t complain. They just slow down, sleep more, and stop doing the things they love. That decline is often chalked up to “just getting older” — when in reality, they’re weighed down by extra kilos they were never meant to carry.
How Do I Know if My Pet Is Overweight?
Here’s a quick reality check:
✅ Can you feel your pet’s ribs without pressing hard?
✅ Do they have a visible waist when viewed from above?
✅ Is there a tummy tuck (abdomen curves upward) from the side?
If you answered NO to any of these — it’s time to make some changes.
And it’s not just dogs and cats.
- Rabbits who are overweight can’t groom themselves properly, increasing the risk of flystrike and skin infections.
- Guinea pigs develop foot sores and breathing problems.
- Even pet mice and rats suffer when fed processed “human-style” treats — we’ve seen rodents with bellies dragging on the ground.
The Toxic Treat Trap
You love them. You want to spoil them. We get it.
But those brightly packaged “doggy cookies,” flavoured jerky sticks, or cheese cubes disguised as treats are doing far more harm than good.
Most commercial treats and processed pet foods are:
- High in salt, sugar, preservatives and artificial flavourings
- Low in meaningful nutrition
- Designed to be addictive — to both pet and owner
Just like in humans, certain additives and preservatives can mess with metabolism and pack on the kilos. And unless you’ve read every ingredient label with a fine-tooth comb, chances are your pet is consuming more junk than you realise.
That’s why control matters.
Making your own treats using real food is cheaper, safer, and often more loved by your pet. Dehydrated meats, veggie chunks, or single-ingredient snacks are better options that aren’t packed with fillers.
Still Not Sure Where to Start?
You’re not alone — and no one expects you to overhaul everything overnight.
That’s why I wrote What’s Really in Your Dog’s Bowl? — a no-nonsense, easy-to-read guide to understanding pet nutrition.
At the end of the book, you’ll find a 30-day challenge to help you transition your pet’s diet safely and sustainably — without expensive gimmicks or vet clinic food bags.
It’s all about learning, choosing wisely, and making it stick.
Snaps may be sassy, but his extra kilos are no joke.
This chunky ginger boy struggles with mobility, heat, and joint pressure — proof that a “little treat” here and there adds up fast.
Don’t Wait — Do Something Today
The best time to start?
Today.
Not next month. Not “after the kids go back to school.”
Because every day spent overweight is another day your pet’s body is under strain — and they can’t speak up for themselves.
Small changes add up fast:
- Cut back processed treats
- Add a few extra minutes of walking or play each day
- Switch to a species-appropriate, natural diet
- Get hands-on — check those ribs, bellies, and waistlines regularly
Final Thought
Your pet doesn’t need more snacks.
They need more time — more walks, more play, more cuddles, more years by your side.
Let’s stop confusing love with indulgence.
Let’s start showing it with care, connection, and responsibility.
Because a healthy pet is a happy pet — and that starts with us.
©Majella Gee 2025
Models: Main image - Eddie the Pug. Top to Bottom - Bella the Dachshund, Pepper the Blue Tabby Cat, Squeaky the mouse, Herman the grey & white cat, Snaps the Ginger cat and Terrance the Terrier Cross.
#PetObesity #HealthyPets #MajellasPetStore #OverweightPets #PetWellness #DogNutrition #FatCatProblems #PetHealthMatters #AnimalWellbeing #ObesePets
#NaturalPetCare #WhatInYourPetsBowl #ResponsiblePetOwnership