Position Statement

Global Pet Obesity Initiative

Advancing consistent, science-based standards for companion animal obesity by uniting veterinary experts and international organizations worldwide.

This position statement was originally developed to promote global consistency in obesity definition, Body Condition Scoring, and disease recognition. World Pet Obesity continues to build on these principles through current clinical obesity education, tools, and research initiatives.

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Three Core Recommendations

The initiative calls for one consistent clinical language

The position statement centers on three practical standards that can improve assessment, communication, research consistency, and earlier intervention.

01

Define obesity consistently

Use a uniform definition of canine and feline obesity to reduce confusion and support clearer clinical communication.

02

Use a 1–9 BCS system

Adopt a universal whole-integer 1–9 Body Condition Score for dogs and cats across clinical and research settings.

03

Recognize obesity as disease

Formally recognize canine and feline obesity as a disease requiring prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.

01

A Uniform Definition of Obesity

We call for the veterinary profession to adopt uniform nomenclature for canine and feline obesity.

Currently, there is no universally accepted definition of obesity in dogs and cats. This lack of professional consensus has created confusion among veterinary professionals, industry stakeholders, and pet owners. It also makes it challenging for veterinarians to provide clear, consistent messages to clients about obesity, and may help explain why the condition is rarely recorded in patients’ clinical records.1

We believe that adopting and widely publicizing a standard definition of obesity will raise awareness of the disease and increase discussion and motivation to act within the profession, with the ultimate goal of improving the health of cats and dogs.

Recommended standard

Define obesity as body weight 30% or more above ideal weight. This threshold corresponds approximately to a score of 8/9 on the preferred 9-point Body Condition Score system.

Our recommendation is that obesity be defined as body weight 30% or more above ideal weight. While excess body weight, including overweight and obesity, represents a continuum, and any cut-off point for the onset of disease is somewhat arbitrary, this definition correlates with human obesity standards such as body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference.2 It is also consistent with, and broadly supported by, veterinary studies demonstrating associations between obesity and comorbid diseases,3–5 functional impairment,6–11 and decreased quality of life.12,13

The most practical clinical tool for measuring adiposity is the Body Condition Score (BCS). A 30% increase above ideal body weight corresponds to a score of 8/9 on the preferred 9-point BCS system.14–17 However, defining obesity based on percentage above ideal weight, rather than BCS alone, is preferable because it enables veterinarians to precisely identify the onset of obesity using multiple strategies.

For example, if a veterinary practice recommends routine body weight and BCS assessments throughout a pet’s life, and formally records the healthy adult weight of a dog or cat, meaning the weight at early adulthood when BCS is ideal,18 subsequent weight gain can be tracked accurately as a percentage change from the healthy adult weight. This approach provides a more precise determination of when obesity begins, improving early detection and intervention.

02

A Universal Body Condition Scoring System

We urge the global veterinary community to adopt a universal Body Condition Score for dogs and cats: a whole-integer, one-through-nine scale.

Many different body condition scoring systems have been suggested for estimating the adiposity of dogs and cats,3,4,14–17,19–22 and, while they may be broadly comparable, for example, a 5-unit system using half units is broadly equivalent to a 9-unit system, having different methods creates confusion. Not only is this problematic for veterinary professionals and owners when discussing obesity and health-care recommendations, it can also lead to inconsistency in interpreting the results of scientific studies.

Recommended standard

Adopt a whole-integer 1–9 BCS system for dogs and cats. A shared scale improves clinical consistency, owner communication, and interpretation of research findings.

In adopting a universal system, we believe that the 9-unit body condition score is preferable. This system has been more extensively validated than other systems, for example, by comparing scores against precise measures of body fat mass using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).14–17,22 It is also the system recommended by the WSAVA Global Nutrition Panel.23

We recognize that other validated methods of determining adiposity have been developed for cats and dogs, such as using multiple zoometric measures.20,21 While we would not discourage their use, we believe body condition scoring has many advantages, most notably speed and simplicity, that support consistent use in veterinary practices. By adopting a universal BCS, veterinary teams will be better able to interpret veterinary medical research, more consistently and accurately assess their patients’ body condition, and clearly communicate with colleagues and clients.

03

Recognizing Pet Obesity as a Disease

We call on the veterinary profession to formally recognize canine and feline obesity as a disease.

For years, the human medical field has debated whether obesity should be classified as a disease.24–28 Opponents argue that body fat accumulation is simply a normal physiological response to an abnormal, “obesogenic” environment.27,28 However, obesity follows a disease-like progression: one or more causal factors trigger physiological changes that ultimately result in functional impairment and health decline.26

In animals, prolonged positive energy balance causes the expansion of adipose tissue and fat deposition in other organs. This process disrupts metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory pathways, leading to comorbidities and decreased quality of life.

Disease recognition

Obesity meets the American Medical Association criteria for defining a disease: impairment of normal body function, characteristic signs or symptoms, and associated harm or morbidity.

Obesity meets the American Medical Association (AMA) criteria for defining a disease:

  1. Impairment of normal body function
  2. Characteristic signs or symptoms
  3. Associated harm or morbidity

Some critics argue that labeling obesity a disease could negatively affect well-being or fail to improve medical support.27,28 However, studies show that a formal disease classification can reduce stigma, encourage proactive treatment, and improve access to care.25,26 The AMA adopted this position in 2013,25 and many major organizations, including the World Health Organization, World Obesity Federation, FDA, and NIH, now support it as well.26,30,31

The Global Impact of Pet Obesity

Obesity is one of the most common medical disorders in veterinary practice.3–5,32–34 Studies suggest that over half of dogs and cats are overweight or have obesity, with prevalence rising worldwide, including in developing countries.35,36 Of particular concern, approximately 21% of dogs are already overweight by six months of age.37

Obesity has serious consequences:

  • Reduced life expectancy38
  • Lower quality of life12,13
  • Increased risk of comorbidities3,4
  • Metabolic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal dysfunction9–11,39
  • Significant financial burden for pet owners40

Companion animals differ from humans in one crucial way: they cannot make diet or feeding decisions for themselves. This underscores the responsibility of veterinarians and pet owners to intervene. Recognizing obesity as a disease will compel action, encourage innovation, and drive the development of new solutions for prevention and treatment.

While some argue that diagnostic tools such as BMI in humans or BCS in animals are imprecise,27 this does not invalidate disease classification. Many chronic conditions, such as chronic kidney disease or periodontal disease, use diagnostic staging systems despite similar variability.42,43

Just as these systems are accepted, so too should obesity be recognized as a disease. This classification is consistent with veterinary practice and supported by a growing body of global research and consensus, including recommendations from the WSAVA One Health Committee.41

Why It Matters

A shared definition, a standardized 9-point BCS, and formal recognition of obesity as a disease give the profession one consistent language, reducing confusion, strengthening research, and supporting earlier, more consistent care.

Not-for-profit organizations and associations are invited to endorse the statement. Contact us to add your name

Proudly Supported Worldwide

Endorsed by leading veterinary organizations

The Global Pet Obesity Initiative Position Statement is supported by the following veterinary healthcare professional organizations. Join them in advancing standards for companion animal obesity worldwide.

As of October 13, 2019

  • AAFP – American Association of Feline Practitioners
  • AAVN – American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition
  • ACVIM – American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
  • ACVSMR – American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation
  • AVNT – Academy of Veterinary Nutrition Technicians
  • AVMA – American Veterinary Medical Association (Board of Directors)
  • BSAVA – British Small Animal Veterinary Association
  • CVMA – Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
  • CAVN – Canadian Academy of Veterinary Nutrition
  • Cats Protection (U.K.)
  • Dogs Trust (U.K.)
  • ECVCN – European College of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition
  • ESVCN – European Society of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition
  • ESVE – European Society of Veterinary Endocrinology
  • ESVIM – European Society of Veterinary Internal Medicine
  • FECAVA – Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations
  • ICC – International Cat Care
  • IPFD – International Partnership for Dogs
  • ISFM – International Society of Feline Medicine
  • NAVTA – National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America
  • PNA – Pet Nutrition Alliance
  • PDSA – The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals
  • SCE – Society for Comparative Endocrinology
  • WSAVA – World Small Animal Veterinary Association
References

Reference List

  1. Rolph NC, Noble PJM, German AJ. How often do primary care veterinarians record the overweight status of dogs? J Nutr Sci 2014;3:e58.
  2. Bray GA, Kim KK, Wilding J. Obesity: a chronic relapsing progressive disease process. A position statement of the World Obesity Federation. Obesity Rev 2017;18:715–723.
  3. Lund EM, Armstrong PJ, Kirk CA, et al. Prevalence and risk factors for obesity in adult cats from private US veterinary practices. Intern J Appl Res Vet Med 2005;3:88–96.
  4. Lund EM, Armstrong PJ, Kirk CA, et al. Prevalence and risk factors for obesity in adult dogs from private US veterinary practices. Int J Appl Res Vet Med 2006;4:177–186.
  5. German AJ. The growing problem of obesity in dogs and cats. J Nutr 2006;136:1940S–1946S.
  6. German AJ, Hervera M, Hunter L, et al. Insulin resistance and reduction in plasma inflammatory adipokines after weight loss in obese dogs. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2009;37:214–226.
  7. Tvarijonaviciute A, Ceron JJ, Holden SL, et al. Obesity-related metabolic dysfunction in dogs: a comparison with human metabolic syndrome. BMC Vet Res 2012;8:147.
  8. Tvarijonaviciute A, Ceron JJ, Holden SL, et al. Effects of weight loss in obese cats on biochemical analytes relating to inflammation and glucose homeostasis. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2012;42:129–141.
  9. Tvarijonaviciute A, Ceron JJ, Holden SL, et al. Effect of weight loss in obese dogs on indicators of renal function or disease. J Vet Intern Med 2013;27:31–38.
  10. Mosing M, German AJ, Holden SL, et al. Oxygenation and ventilation characteristics in obese sedated dogs before and after weight loss: a clinical trial. Vet J 2013;198:367–371.
  11. Tropf M, Nelson OL, Lee PM, Weng HY. Cardiac and metabolic variables in obese dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2017;31:1000–1007.
  12. German AJ, Holden SL, Wiseman-Orr ML, et al. Quality of life is reduced in obese dogs but improves after successful weight loss. Vet J 2012;192:428–434.
  13. Yam PS, Butowski CF, Chitty JL, et al. Impact of canine overweight and obesity on health-related quality of life. Prev Vet Med 2016;127:64–69.
  14. Laflamme D. Development and validation of a body condition score system for dogs. Canine Pract 1997;22:10–15.
  15. Laflamme D. Development and validation of a body condition score system for cats. Feline Pract 1997;25:13–18.
  16. German AJ, Holden SL, Bissot T, et al. Use of starting condition score to estimate changes in body weight and composition during weight loss in obese dogs. Res Vet Sci 2009;87:249–254.
  17. Bjornvad CR, Nielsen DH, Armstrong PJ, et al. Evaluation of a nine-point body condition scoring system in physically inactive pet cats. Am J Vet Res 2011;72:433–437.
  18. German AJ. Obesity prevention and weight management after loss. Vet Clin North Am 2016;46:913–929.
  19. Scarlett JM, Donoghue S. Associations between body condition and disease in cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:1725–1731.
  20. Witzel AL, Kirk CA, Henry GA, et al. Use of a novel morphometric method and body fat index system for estimation of body composition in overweight and obese dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014;244:1279–1284.
  21. Witzel AL, Kirk CA, Henry GA, et al. Use of a morphometric method and body fat index system for estimation of body composition in overweight and obese cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014;244:1285–1290.
  22. Flanagan J, Bissot T, Hours M-A, et al. Success of a weight loss plan for overweight dogs: the results of an international weight loss study. PLoS ONE 2017;12:e0184199.
  23. WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee. WSAVA global nutrition guidelines. Available at: wsava.org. Accessed March 12, 2018.
  24. Kopelman PG. Obesity as a medical problem. Nature 2000;404:635–643.
  25. Kyle TK, Dhurandhar EJ, Allison DB. Regarding obesity as a disease. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2016;45:511–520.
  26. Bray GA, Kim KK, Wilding J. Obesity: a chronic relapsing progressive disease process. A position statement of the World Obesity Federation. Obesity Rev 2017;18:715–723.
  27. Muller MJ, Geisler C. Defining obesity as a disease. Eur J Clin Nutr 2017;71:1256–1258.
  28. Vallgarda S, Nielsen MEJ, Hansen AKK, et al. Should Europe follow the US and declare obesity a disease? A discussion of the so-called utilitarian argument. Eur J Clin Nutr 2017;71:1263–1267.
  29. Faber K. Nosography in Modern Internal Medicine. New York: Paul B. Hoeber, Inc.; 1923.
  30. Garvey WT, Garber AJ, Mechanick JI, et al; AACE Obesity Scientific Committee. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology consensus conference on obesity: building an evidence base for comprehensive action. Endocr Pract 2014;20:956–976.
  31. Garvey WT, Mechanick JI, Brett EM, et al. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology comprehensive clinical practice guidelines for medical care of patients with obesity. Endocr Pract 2016;22(Suppl 3):1–203.
  32. Courcier EA, Thompson RM, Mellor DJ. An epidemiological study of environmental factors associated with canine obesity. J Small Anim Pract 2010;51:362–367.
  33. Courcier EA, O’Higgins R, Mellor DJ, et al. Prevalence and risk factors for feline obesity in a first opinion practice in Glasgow, Scotland. J Feline Med Surg 2010;12:746–753.
  34. Brooks D, Churchill J, Fein K, et al. 2014 AAHA weight management guidelines for dogs and cats. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2014;50:1–11.
  35. Banfield Pet Hospitals. Obesity in dogs and cats, state of pet health report. Available at: banfield.com. Accessed March 16, 2018.
  36. Mao J, Xia Z, Chen J, Yu J. Prevalence and risk factors for canine obesity surveyed in veterinary practices in Beijing, China. Prev Vet Med 2013;112:438–442.
  37. German AJ, Woods GRT, Holden SL, et al. Dangerous trends in pet obesity. Vet Rec 2018;182:25.
  38. Kealy RD, Lawler DF, Ballam JM, et al. Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:1315–1320.
  39. German AJ, Ryan VH, German AC, et al. Obesity, its associated disorders and the role of inflammatory adipokines in companion animals. Vet J 2010;185:4–9.
  40. Bomberg E, Birch L, Endenburg N, et al. The financial costs, behaviour and psychology of obesity: a one health analysis. J Comp Pathol 2017;156:310–325.
  41. Day MJ. One health approach to preventing obesity in people and their pets. J Comp Pathol 2017;156:293–295.
  42. International Renal Interest Society. IRIS staging of CKD. Available at: iris-kidney.com. Accessed March 12, 2018.
  43. Wolf HF, Rateitschak KH, et al. Color Atlas of Dental Medicine: Periodontology. 3rd ed. Stuttgart: Georg Thieme Verlag; 2005.
  44. Day MJ, Bilzer T, Mansell J, et al. Histopathological standards for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal inflammation in endoscopic biopsy samples from the dog and cat: a report from the WSAVA Gastrointestinal Standardization Group. J Comp Pathol 2008;138:S1–S43.
  45. Day MJ, Willard MD, Hall EJ, et al. Endoscopic, biopsy, and histopathologic guidelines for the evaluation of gastrointestinal inflammation in companion animals. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:10–16.
  46. Willard MD, Moore GE, Denton BD, et al. Effect of tissue processing on assessment of endoscopic intestinal biopsies in dogs and cats. J Vet Intern Med 2009;24:84–89.

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Tools

Calorie & BCS Calculators

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2026 Study

Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey

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Report

2022 U.S. State of Pet Obesity

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About the Global Pet Obesity Initiative

The Global Pet Obesity Initiative supports a more consistent, science-based approach to companion animal obesity across countries, languages, and veterinary settings. WPOA works to advance shared definitions, standardized body condition and muscle condition scoring, multilingual educational resources, and recognition of obesity as a chronic clinical disease in dogs and cats. The initiative helps veterinary teams, researchers, educators, and animal health organizations improve assessment, communication, documentation, and long-term obesity care worldwide.