NPR

Showing Love Through Food May Be Making Our Pets Obese And Unhappy

Over half of the dogs and cats around the globe battle the bulge. A pet obesity specialist says a deep human-animal bond may inadvertently be causing unhealthy emotional and physical consequences.
John Locke lounges at home. Owners often say they don't care if their pet is "fat" — there's just more of them to love!

New Year's weight loss goals can apply to our pets as well as ourselves. Dr. Deborah Linder, who heads the Tufts Obesity Clinic for Animals at Tufts University, explores pet obesity in this post originally for The Conversation.

When I looked at my appointment book for the day, I thought something must be wrong. Someone who worked in the fitness industry was bringing his cat in to the Tufts Obesity Clinic for Animals. Did he confuse us for a different kind of weight management clinic? Is he looking to get muscle on his cat or maybe kitty protein shakes?

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
What Are Sperm Whales Saying? Researchers Find A Complex 'Alphabet'
Researchers say sperm whales have a complex communication system, an example of how new technology is opening up the mysterious world of animal language.
NPR2 min readWorld
Israeli Forces Take Control At Rafah Crossing; How A Border Patrol Agent Sees His Job
Israeli forces have taken control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing into Egypt. A U.S. Border Patrol agent explains how he sees his agency's mission.
NPR5 min readAmerican Government
Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels Is Testifying Against Trump In New York Trial
Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels, has spent the last several years in legal battles with former President Trump. She has taken the stand to testify against him in a criminal trial.

Related Books & Audiobooks