Australia Faces Rising Pet Obesity

Pet Insurance Australia Highlights Risks During World Pet Obesity Week

Australia — October 2025

As we enter World Pet Obesity Week (October 6–12, 2025), Pet Insurance Australia is urging pet owners to take action now to prevent obesity in their companion animals. According to the 2025 PetSure Pet Health Monitor, obesity and overweight prevalence among pets is a growing concern, fueling chronic illness, increased veterinary costs, and reduced quality of life for many pets.

“Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue, it is a serious health problem with far-reaching consequences,” says Nadia Crighton of Pet Insurance Australia. “During this week, we aim to raise awareness and encourage owners to talk with their vet, monitor their pet’s weight, and take steps toward healthier lifestyles.”

This is particularly prevalent in our feline population, as data suggests more than half of cats aged between six and seven are reported overweight or obese.

“Obesity has been flagged as one of the most underestimated drivers of chronic disease in cats, contributing to conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, liver disease, and urinary tract problems,” Crighton warns. “

These insights echo veterinary and academic findings elsewhere. For example, a paper in Veterinary Practice notes that in Australia, an estimated 33.5% of pets are overweight. The Global Pet Obesity Initiative defines obesity as 30% above the ideal body weight.

Why Pet Obesity Matters — and Why This Week Counts

World Pet Obesity Week is organised globally by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), and this year it runs October 6–12, 2025.

During this week, Pet Insurance Australia will spotlight:

• How to recognise obesity in pets (using Body Condition Scoring, visual & tactile checks)
• The hidden costs, both in medical bills and pet welfare, of untreated obesity
• Steps owners can take now, with veterinary support, to manage diet, exercise, and lifestyle

“Most pet owners do not understand the incredible impact weight can have on the longevity and overall health of their beloved pet,” Crighton says. “Obesity is linked to numerous health risks: diabetes, arthritis, urinary disease, liver conditions, and reduced lifespan.”

Moreover, many owners may not recognise early weight gain.

“Veterinary studies have noted a major problem when it comes to obese pets known as ‘weight blindness,’ where pet owners underestimate their animals’ body condition compared with medical assessments,” Crighton says. “This highlights how important it is to have your pet’s weight checked by your local veterinarian to ensure they are at their ideal body weight.”

Call to Action: What Pet Owners Can Do

During World Pet Obesity Week, Pet Insurance Australia recommends these steps:

1. Schedule a veterinary check with your pet’s vet and ask about Body Condition Score (BCS).
2. Track diet carefully – measure food portions rather than free-feeding, reduce treats, and choose appropriate nutrition plans.
3. Increase activity – daily walks, play sessions, enrichment toys, especially for indoor pets.
4. Monitor weight regularly – small incremental weight changes over months can accumulate.

“We believe every pet deserves the healthiest life possible,” says Crighton. “By raising awareness during Pet Obesity Week, we hope to empower owners to take early steps to combat weight issues, before serious health decline.

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• Your Life Choices

Nadia Crighton

Nadia Crighton is a renowned and accomplished professional in the fields of Journalism, Public Relations, and Writing, with an extensive career spanning over 25 years, 20 of which have been dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of pets.

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