OBESITY IN DOMESTIC CATS: IMPACTS ON ANIMAL HEALTH AND WELFARE IN THE BRAZILIAN URBAN CONTEXT

Abstract

In the aforementioned work, the importance of promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and animals is observed, preventing mistreatment and zoonotic diseases, since animal protection contributes to public health and environmental balance, strengthening the bonds of empathy and collective responsibility in cities. The study aimed to analyze the impacts that the social realities of population actions have on the health of domestic felines, with specific objectives to present the contexts of their health and well-being; to describe the causes of obesity in domestic feline animals; and finally, to measure the challenges and health issues arising from the incidence of their obesity. The study was conducted through bibliographic research, collecting qualitative data and presenting descriptive and analytical methods in data collection under inclusion and exclusion criteria along with the bibliographic collection. The research showed in urban contexts, various negative impacts on the health and overall well-being of animals, such as lack of space for exercise, inadequate nutrition, and the sedentary lifestyle typical of urban life. Contributing to weight gain, causing other ailments, in addition to reducing the life expectancy of cats and, consequently, increasing the costs of veterinary treatments. It is concluded that performing preventive care for the health and well-being of domestic felines is fundamental to ensuring a long life, identifying problems early, and providing an enriched environment with physical and mental stimuli, reducing stress and undesirable behaviors, while also strengthening the bond between owner and animal, promoting a more harmonious and responsible coexistence.