The Correlation Between Companion Animal Obesity and Guardian Lifestyles from a One Health Perspective
Obesity is an increasing health concern affecting both humans and companion animals. This study interpreted pet obesity as a consequence of the home environment and lifestyle habits shared by guardians and their pets from a One Health perspective and reviewed the relevant literature. The reviewed literature consistently demonstrated that guardians' weight status, feeding practices, physical activity levels, and perceptions of obesity were significantly associated with obesity in companion animals. In particular, dogs were found to be more strongly influenced by their guardians' lifestyle patterns, whereas cats were more affected by indoor environmental conditions and feeding management, highlighting the need for species-specific approaches. The reviewed evidence also suggests that improving guardians' health behaviors may contribute to healthier outcomes for their pets. In conclusion, because humans and companion animals share the same socio-economic and living environments, pet obesity should be understood not merely as an individual health issue but as an environmental outcome arising from the interconnected relationship between guardians and their pets. Therefore, effective prevention and management of pet obesity require a comprehensive One Health approach that extends beyond veterinary diagnosis, dietary therapy, and exercise management to integrate human, animal, and environmental health while emphasizing shared responsibility among guardians, veterinary professionals, and public health sectors.