Impact of Obesity on Cardiopulmonary Disease

Although there are known detrimental effects of obesity on the heart and lungs, few data exist showing obesity as a risk factor for cardiopulmonary disorders in dogs and cats. It is probable that increased abdominal fat is detrimental, as it is in humans, and there is evidence of negative effects of increased intrathoracic fat. In addition to the physical effects of fat, increased inflammatory mediators and neurohormonal effects of obesity likely contribute to cardiopulmonary disorders, as well. Weight loss in overweight individuals improves cardiac parameters and exercise tolerance. Obesity in patients with obstructive airway disorders is recognized to increase disease severity.