I'd like to think that your version of Tails has the chubby stomach because he's getting plenty of yummy food and snacks after Sonic took him in and it shows to where the protien and nutrients are sticking to his ribs and is looking more healthy than before.
Oh, totally! This kid was alone for so long.
Sonic is the best brother in the world, and he makes sure his little brother always gets enough to eat. Hunger is something Tails hasn't experienced since he's been living with Sonic!
Also, I love the idea that, regardless, Tails eats a lot. He has an extra tail, does high-intensity physical activities, and constantly engages in activities that require concentration and a lot of thought—that takes a lot of energy, so he usually eats a lot. ;3
I like to headcanon that Tails has body issues outside his 2 tails. He doesnt spiral as much about it as he does about his tails but does comment to himself on bit and peices of his own body, often times his stomach wondering if he is too fat.
Looking too long in mirrors, avoiding mirrors, checking himself out in every reflection he finds himself in to make sure his chub isnt too big, too round. (I do all of this)
But he also forgets how stick thin he was before Sonic, how his ribs showed through his fur, his fur looking shrink wrapped to his skeleton. Sonic worked hard to get Tails to a healthier weight, to learn how to make and balance nutritional meals, to help with eating disorders when Tails' stomach would be full after a few bites because it couldn't handle more than that.
Rule #1 with feeding starving animals, despite popular belief, don't overfeed them. It causes stomach distortion, pain, low stomach acid + shit ton of food will make them throw up, the stomach is a organ that needs time and practice to stretch to healthy fullness.
You can kill a newborn puppy or kitten if you give them too much milk supplement if they cant nurse from momma. Same exact logic from a starving animal or child in this case. Forcing food causes more harm than good.
Tails thinks he's overweight and is self conscious about it, but forgets how underweight he used to be before Sonic took actual care of him. Sure he might be a few pounds overweight, but he is far more healthy than he once was. His brain remembers being thinner, but not being malnourished.
Mmm, first of all, thanks for the question, Anon!
TW: Eating Disorder
Although I must say I disagree, I respect your interpretation, because I know that sometimes it helps us cope with situations we ourselves experience, especially something as delicate as an eating disorder. Needless to say, I'm sorry if you feel that way about your body; I know what it's like to feel that way.
And while it's something I suffered from for a very long time, I think the issue is that I felt it from a very young age. As I grew up and managed to overcome it, I realized that no child should have to suffer from it, because it's a developing body that needs energy and nutrients to grow. So, for me, beginning to accept this also made me greatly appreciate the cartoons that depicted this in children, and Tails is an example. His physical appearance will possibly change as he grows, but this isn't the time for that. (And perhaps saying that is also a hug for my younger self.)
So, I find your perspective interesting, but I don't agree with it 100%. Thanks for sharing your perspective!
On the other hand, I agree that it must have been difficult for Sonic to find a way to start feeding him. My family often adopts injured animals, so I'm aware that it's risky to try to feed them as if nothing were wrong. So I'm glad you mentioned that detail!
