Can't Outrun a Bad Diet: Practical Fixes for Pet Obesity

In this episode of Vet Tales, Dr. Natalie Brackeen and Dr. Josiah Dame discuss pet obesity—how to recognize it using body condition scores, why excess weight causes arthritis, diabetes, breathing issues and liver problems, and why calories matter more than exercise.

They share practical advice for pet caretakers: keep food logs, measure portions, adjust feeding for spayed/neutered and senior pets, consider satiety or weight-loss diets, use meal management tools for multi-pet homes and cats, monitor progress with your veterinarian, and watch for emerging medical options.