Obesity in the Dog and Cat

As of 2018, pet obesity in the US affects an estimated 55.8 percent of dogs and 59.5 percent of cats, resulting in secondary conditions such as arthritis, diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and certain forms of cancer. A complete and balanced diet accompanied by regular exercise is fundamental to optimize health and longevity in companion animals, meaning overweight pets have reduced quality of life and shorter life expectancy. Seeking to address this major modern-day problem, this book provides a comprehensive review of obesity in small animal medicine.
• Reviews epidemiology and how animal- and human-specific factors contribute to excess weight gain.
• Discusses the metabolic effects and inflammatory mediators associated with adiposity.
• Looks at various disease states and how they relate or develop as a result of obesity.
• Reviews different modalities to determine body composition to diagnose obesity.
• Offers a clinical approach to managing obesity with diet including discussion on the nutrients of concern for therapeutic weight loss diets.
Veterinarians seeking to provide weight management services in practice will find clinically-applicable information from expert authors from both academic and practice backgrounds. Chapters cover topics ranging from epidemiology and pathophysiology of obesity to evaluation of body composition, and nutritional and behavioral management. The book also explores the role of exercise in managing obesity and looks at the management of co-morbidities. Finally, the authors present a range of case studies to demonstrate these topics in real-life practice.
Editor(s) Bio
Martha Cline gained her DVM at the University of Tennessee in 2010 and returned in 2011 to complete her residency in clinical nutrition. She joined the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in 2013. Martha is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition.
Maryanne Murphy gained her DVM at Iowa State University in 2008 and joined the University of Tennessee in 2009 to complete her residency in clinical nutrition and PhD with a focus on energy metabolism and satiety in lean and obese dogs. She joined the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in 2014 and returned to the University of Tennessee as faculty in 2016. Maryanne is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition.
Reviews
This is an indispensable guide for any veterinarian or veterinary technician interested in better understanding the disease of obesity. The authors reach far beyond the traditional clinical approach of, "Feed less, exercise more," and explore the current pathophysiology of obesity and emerging treatment options. Thoroughly researched and packed with practical advice, this is the textbook I wish I had twenty-five years ago. Highly recommended.
- Ernie Ward, DVM, CVFT, Founder, The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention
This book will be valuable for anyone managing obesity cases in practice as there is considerable practical information. I found the chapter on behavioral management of obesity especially useful. There is also good information on the pathophysiology and sequaela of obesity. By necessity, there is information from human obesity where we don't have sufficient information in dogs and cats; however, this points to useful areas for future research.
- Marge Chandler, DVM, MS, MANZCVS, DACVN, DACVIM-CA, MRCVS, Clinical Nutritionist at Vets Now Referrals, Co-Chair of the WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, and Chair of the FEDIAF Scientific Advisory Board
Despite the growing prevalence of obesity in the pet population, a comprehensive book to provide veterinary professionals with the background to address the problem appropriately has been lacking. This book effectively fills that void. The authors have the advanced training to address the science of obesity and its management as well as the boots-on-the ground experience to customize the information to the practitioner audience and to understand the importance of offering a practical approach that is feasible for practitioners and pet owners. Each chapter begins with a list of subtopics followed by the material presented in clearly marked, concise sections, numbered for easy reference. The book has been well thought out to address the needs and potential questions of the audience. Clearly written, concise yet thorough, this book meets an important need for a practical veterinary resource for the understanding and clinical management of obesity in pet dogs and cats. Presented in a well-organized and easily-scanned format, this is an important reference for every small animal practice.
- Marcella Ridgway, VMD, MS, DACVIM,University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 3* Doody's Review, Aug 2019