Americans' poor health is now hurting the pets in whom the seek comfort, authorities warn

American pet owners are nearly unanimous that their furry companions improve their quality of life—but experts warn the feeling isn't always mutual, and that poor human health can significantly impact a pet's wellbeing.

Nearly 70% of Americans own a pet. But what happens when those owners don't follow healthy habits themselves?

“Dogs and cats depend on their guardians to make healthy choices for them, from proper portions to daily exercise and enrichment,” Catie Cryar, a People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) spokesperson, told Just the News.

Obesity rates in the U.S. have skyrocketed over the last half century – and now make up roughly 40% of the nation's adult population. Less than 20% of U.S. adults participate in sports or exercise on a regular basis, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported last year. Additionally, ultra-processed foods are estimated to account for over half of the average American diet.

Poor health choices in humans often trickle down to the animals in their care – with popular companion pets such as cats and dogs suffering the most. 

Up to 70% of pet owners overfeed their animals, with 4-in-5 admitting to giving their pets human food or table scraps on a regular basis. 

“When guardians overfeed, overuse treats, or don’t make time for exercise and enrichment,” Cryar advised, “animals can become overweight and suffer physically and emotionally.” 

Owner exercise habits impact dogs most keenly, the PETA spokesperson told JTN. 

“Dogs depend on their guardians for everything, including exercise, enrichment, and the chance to relieve themselves, so denying them regular, fulfilling walks can seriously harm their physical and mental well-being,” Cryar also says.

According to a recent PETA poll, 75% of U.S. dog guardians agree that dogs need at least three daily walks for their overall well-being—yet only 26% actually follow through, and only 21% of guardians who walk their dogs consistently allow them to stop and sniff at leisure. 

“A walk is often the highlight of a dog’s day, not a chore to speed through,” the PETA spokesperson added.

Cats face a version of the same neglect. They also suffer from a lack of sufficient active playtime, such as "interactive toys, climbing opportunities, and other activities that keep them physically and mentally engaged."

The results are devastating for many household pets: around 59% of dogs and 61% of cats in the United States are overweight or obese, issues which are often accompanied by other chronic illnesses like arthritis.

Experts say the imbalance isn’t just physical. 

Concern is growing with regard to the rising number of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) – animals meant to provide companionship to those with mental health or psychiatric disorders – which now make up around 20% of pets nationwide.

“Dogs, cats, and other companion animals can bring comfort, but they’re feeling individuals with emotional lives and needs of their own, not emotional support tools or accessories,” Cryar warned.

Roughly 88% of ESA owners say that their mental health improved because of their pet, but research on animal emotions adds a layer of complexity. 

“Because animals can pick up on and be affected by human emotions, guardians must be careful that their reliance on an animal never comes at the expense of that animal’s well-being,” the PETA spokesperson said, adding that “a healthy bond should go both ways.”

Positive habits can be mutually beneficial to pets and their owners. Dog owners are statistically more likely to exercise, and healthy eating habits are known to add to longevity, while increased playtime and positive bonding can alleviate anxiety and depression in both people and their furry friends.