Symptoms & Treatments for Feline and Canine Obesity

Causes of Obesity in Pets

Simple Obesity

Simple obesity in pets is primarily caused by a combination of genetic predisposition, overnutrition, or insufficient exercise. Certain breeds, such as Pugs and Dachshunds, are more prone to obesity. In terms of diet, feeding highfat, highenergy foods and treats can easily lead to weight gain. Agewise, dogs between 5 to 12 years are more susceptible, while cats tend to develop obesity between the ages of 5 to 10.

Secondary Obesity

This type of obesity is often due to endocrine lipid metabolism disorders, pathological changes in endocrine organs, or abnormal hormone secretion. For instance, iatrogenic obesity in cats and dogs, which can be caused by longterm use of medications like corticosteroids, chlorpromazine, and insulin.

Diagnosis Methods

Clinical Examination

Simple Obesity vs. Secondary Obesity

Simple obesity is characterized by uniform body obesity, normal appetite and urine output, glossy fur, and no symptoms of endocrine or metabolic diseases. In contrast, secondary obesity may present with symptoms such as increased appetite, polyuria, trunkal obesity, dry and lackluster fur, increased dandruff, hyperpigmentation, and symmetrical hair loss without itching, along with signs of laziness, drowsiness, decreased alertness, and reduced excitement.

Physical Examination:

Lab Tests

1. Simple Obesity: Initially, blood lipid levels may be normal. However, in the later stages, there may be elevated levels of total cholesterol, serum lipoproteins, triglycerides, and increased serum insulin, with cats showing hypertriglyceridemia.

2. Secondary Obesity: Hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by testing for serum free thyroxine (FT4), total thyroxine (TT4), and thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH). A diagnosis of hypothyroidism is made if both TT4 and FT4 are low. Primary hypothyroidism is diagnosed when TSH is high and TT4 is low (or FT4 is low), while secondary hypothyroidism is diagnosed when TSH is low and TT4 is low (or FT4 is low).

3. Canine Cushing's Diseaserelated obesity.

4. Diabetesrelated obesity.

For pet obesity, it's crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach to prevention and treatment. This includes strengthening feeding management, correcting unhealthy lifestyles, increasing physical activity, accelerating calorie expenditure, and reducing fat synthesis. It's also important to be vigilant about preventing diseases that can lead to obesity, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and pancreatitis.