Porky pets

Our nation's animals are getting fatter, just like we are. We've got some of the unhealthiest pets in Europe as a result of too many tasty snacks and divine treats.

Every day this week GMTV have been highlighting this growing epidemic and depending on which statistics you read, between 30-60% of all dogs and cats in the UK are overweight.

Other experts point to a lack of education and understanding of pet obesity amongst owners with pets acting as surrogate children which means they often get spoiled and pampered.

Lack of exercise is another cause of pet obesity as pets often fail to get the exercise they require to stay healthy and fit.

Nikki Smith, our Adoption Centre Manager in Burford said: "Pet obesity in the UK is at epidemic proportions. It is therefore important for pet owners to act responsibly and exercise their pets regularly, as well as give them a healthy diet.

Health facts

If your pouchy pet is overweight the may suffer from heart complaints, diabetes and arthritis. Lack of exercise and a poor diet may in fact be reducing their life expectancy.

Yet, some owners still don’t seem to be taking the obesity of their favourite animals seriously, which means that we’re slowly killing our pets with love and overfeeding, whilst we leave them lazing in the lounge all day, nibbling on tit-bits and yummy snacks.

Top tips to treating pet obesity:

Be strong

Responsible pet owners should learn to resist soulful eyes.  Pets that plead for food are not always genuinely hungry. 

Prevent bad habits

Never feed your pet treats when you are eating. If possible, pets should be kept in another room during meal times. 

Limit meal times

It is best to feed your pet at specific ‘meal times’ and pick the food up if it is not eaten after a certain time - 15 minutes for dogs or 30 minutes for cats.

Do a ‘fat check’

It is not always easy to tell if your pet is overweight, even if you weigh them regularly.  Does it have a pot belly?  Does it have a waist when viewed from above?  Can you easily feel its ribs? 

Visit your vet

If you think your pet may be overweight, it’s important to take it to the vet to rule out any medical causes.  Your vet will also be able to advise the best and safest way for your pet to lose weight.

‘Weight Watchers’

Your vet will be able to recommend the best calorie-controlled food for your pet, which is fed according to its target weight, not its current weight. 

Treat them well

Remember there are many treats that will not cause your pet to put on weight, such as playing a game with them, stroking them or going for a walk. 

Find out more about how to keep your pet in shape