At VetCBD, we’re committed to helping your pets live their longest, happiest, and healthiest lives. That’s why we want to bring attention to a growing concern we see far too often: pet obesity—and its surprising link to cancer.
We understand weight can be a sensitive subject, but learning about the risks is the first step toward better health for your furry companion.
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over 50% of dogs and cats in North America are overweight or obese. We typically associate extra weight with arthritis, diabetes, or heart problems—but there’s another risk that deserves attention: cancer.
Fat tissue isn’t just passive storage—it’s metabolically active. It produces hormones and inflammatory signals that can disrupt your pet’s internal balance. This chronic, low-grade inflammation is now recognized as a key contributor to several types of cancer in both people and pets.
In fact, studies in veterinary medicine are increasingly linking obesity with higher risks of mammary tumors, bladder cancer, and mast cell tumors in animals.
In human medicine, the link between obesity and cancer is well documented. Conditions like breast, liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers are more common in people with excess weight. The same biological mechanisms—hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, and altered cell growth—are believed to play a similar role in pets.
Understanding these parallels reinforces just how important it is to keep our pets at a healthy weight.
A landmark study of Labrador retrievers found that dogs kept lean lived, on average, nearly two years longer than their overweight littermates. Not only did they live longer, but they also experienced a later onset of chronic disease. The takeaway? Weight control isn’t just cosmetic—it’s life-changing.
The good news? Pet obesity is manageable—and even reversible—with the right plan. Here are a few tips to get started:
Get a Body Condition Score (BCS): Unsure if your pet is overweight? Your vet can help assess their ideal weight.
Measure meals: Use a measuring cup to ensure you’re feeding accurate portions based on your pet’s ideal (not current) weight.
Cut down on treats: Treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories. Use part of their regular food as treats, or choose low-calorie options.
Pick the right diet: Prescription diets can help with weight loss while keeping your pet feeling full and nourished.
Increase exercise safely: Longer walks, interactive play, puzzle feeders, or low-impact activities like swimming can all help. Even indoor cats can benefit from laser pointers or feather wands.
Track progress: Regular weigh-ins help monitor results and allow for plan adjustments.
Imagine your pet feeling lighter, more playful, and more energized for adventures together. Achieving a healthy weight is one of the most powerful things you can do for their long-term health and happiness.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s weight—or just want to be proactive—schedule a consultation with your veterinarian. Together, you can create a personalized plan that puts your pet on the path to wellness.
Sources:
These product reviews are for informational purposes only. The information is not a substitute for expert veterinary care. Product reviews are written by actual customers and represent their own observations. These observations are not guaranteed, are not medically substantiated, and may not be typical for other pets.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The world of pet wellness is always evolving. Get notified about new product launches, news, and more!
Due to state laws, we are unable to ship product to Idaho.
VetCBDÂ products are made using hemp containing less than 0.3% THC.
