Just about every organ in the body maybe affected by obesity, but most at risk are the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Obesity also compromises the effectiveness of a proper physical exam. Heart and lung sounds can be masked by body fat. This may prevent the veterinarian from finding early indicators of disease and delay diagnosis until a disease has reached advanced stages. There are diseases, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease, that are associated with weight gain.
Excess weight is easier to prevent than to lose.
The more weight there is to carry around, the more inactive a pet becomes, and the harder it is to exercise and reduce weight. Visits to your veterinarian for your pet's cycle of puppy or kitten shots should include weight monitoring. Then adjustments in diet and exercise can be made early and problems with obesity avoided. If prevention is a missed opportunity, then the first step toward weight reduction and improved health is a visit with your veterinarian. Metabolic problems contributing to weight gain should be corrected before changing your pet's diet or routine.