Question: Is overfeeding pets to the point of obesity considered animal abuse?

(Posted by: Austyn on 2010-03-13 13:11:12)

If so, where is it considered abuse?

Posted by: JE on 2010-03-13, 13:15:05

I think parents overfeeding their children is a far more pressing concern if we want to talk about abuse. I don't think its abusive at all overfeeding your pet. But for a human? Definitely.

Posted by: Tipi&me on 2010-03-13, 13:22:18

Yes, it is considered abuse because the animal could die from eating to much, for example, a horse: If i feed a horse loads of apples, it will get colic and a 80% chance that horse will die, the same with sweet feed, its like if your parents feed you too much then you'll get a tummy ache, be sick then you might die.

Posted by: srmracer67 on 2010-03-13, 13:35:06

Not really legally, but it is pretty cruel if they do it on purpose. When their pet can hardly walk because they are too fat, they damn well know the pet is suffering. I have had a few dogs, and they will eat as much as you give them, which is why I made sure to give them the right portions that the vet suggested.

Posted by: foxhunter1949 on 2010-03-13, 14:00:46

There have been a few dogs taken from owners by the RSPCA (UK) because they were obese. I agree that obesity will lead to more problems than with pets that are on the thinner side of the scale.

Posted by: Holly T on 2010-03-13, 14:34:05

A little extra fat is usually ok. Sometimes it's actually a good thing..in case they get sick, they have a bit of reserve if they lose weight. But obesity is considered cruelty because it can lead to other haelth problems like diabetes and heart and lung problems.