In a Chinese zoo, a lioness with obesity was explained by age: why the animal did not lose weight.

The lioness sparked outrage due to excessive weight

According to The Sun: The lioness drew the attention of zoo visitors with her significant belly, but the zoo staff assure that the reason for her weight is quite simple.

In a video recorded by one of the visitors, the lioness sits on the ground and chews grass.

The lioness seen in the video resides in the Chengdu zoo in China. Here, it is reported that one pride of lions had obesity issues.

Her belly is so large that it almost touches the ground.

Animal rights activists in China express their dissatisfaction, claiming that lions and tigers at the zoo look "dangerously overweight".

Comments under the video included questions from animal rights defenders: “How are they fed? Raised like little fat pigs!”

Another user noted: “Are they trying to avoid problems just by feeding them and not forcing them to be active?”

Despite the online criticism, zoo staff explain that the reason for the lioness's weight is her age.

The lioness is 12 years old, which is considered "relatively advanced" age for this species. The average lifespan of African lions ranges from 10 to 14 years.

The staff emphasizes that her slow metabolism and reduced activity have led to moderate obesity in this big cat.

In a statement, the zoo mentions that they have been trying to reduce the lioness's weight for over a year, but with limited success.

The staff also added that due to the conditions of captivity, the lioness lacks the “constant need for prey and survival struggle,” thus her activity is naturally lower than that of wild animals.

To help the lioness, the zoo has expanded her area and changed her feeding regimen.

Experts warn that obesity in large animals can lead to metabolic disorders and joint problems.

Similar case with a panther

This is not the first time the zoo has faced criticism for the weight of its big cats. In March, a heavy panther was filmed struggling to move around the area.

This video also sparked outrage due to the unsatisfactory condition of the animal, which, according to commentators, looked 'excessive'.

This case provoked anger not only towards the animals but also over some irresponsible actions, such as painting donkeys to look like zebras. Users noted that this is 'deceptive and unethical,' while others consider such treatment of animals unfair.

The park staff claims that the paints used are non-toxic and safe for animals; however, activists express concerns about the welfare of such animals.