Pet Obesity

Overweight pets

Around 50 per cent of Britain’s pets are overweight, according to the RSPCA. Knowing the dangers of allowing your pet to become obese and following medical advice could save your pet’s life.

Is your pet overweight?

A recent survey carried out on behalf of the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) found that more than half of cat and dog owners were unable to correctly identify a ‘normal’ body shape for their pet. To find out if your dog or cat is overweight, follow these quick checks from the RSPCA or use the petsgetslim.co.uk virtual weight checker.

Health dangers of pet obesity

Overweight pets have shorter lives. They are less able to withstand surgery or fight and recover from disease. Obesity also causes or worsens conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and back and heart problems. The scale of the problem today can be seen in the number of obesity-related insurance claims, which, according to the PFMA, have risen by 60 per cent over the past five years.

Weight loss for pets

If you think your pet is overweight, consult a vet before putting it on a diet. This will help rule out any underlying medical condition. You can find weight loss tips and support, plus details of your nearest vet-run weight clinic, on petsgetslim.co.uk. The PDSA also runs a Pet Fit Club, taking on up to ten overweight pets from across the UK every year for a weight-loss programme.

Exercise regimes for different animals

It’s not just dogs that need regular exercise. Smaller pets such as hamsters, rabbits and guinea pigs require space to run around, either in their cages or in a separate pen. Try to keep the exercise fun and varied, for instance with a plastic hamster ball or a walking harness for your rabbit.

Diet and pets

It’s hard to resist giving treats to your pets, especially when they look at you with puppy-dog eyes! But in the end you could be killing them with kindness. Stick to the food recommended by your vet or the portions outlined on the food packaging. Petsgetslim.co.uk has useful weight-loss tips, for example, did you know that dry food swells up when it reaches the stomach? So it’s more filling than it looks!

Related information:

• Food and drink - Read more advice on food and drink for your pet
• Dog Health - Health check for your dog
• Cat health – information on cat health and well being