As the UK basked in glorious sunshine over the Bank Holiday weekend, nutrition experts at IAMS revealed the top barbecues foods to avoid to keep pets safe from harm.

The advice comes as research reveals that four in five UK pet owners feed their pets human food at least once a week, even though 72% of us understand the health implications of doing so.

The survey of 2,000 pet owners highlights that the smell of sizzling sausages will have half (50%) of pets licking their lips and sneaking leftovers directly off the plate, with chicken and hot dogs ranked as the top barbecue foods that Brits are guilty of feeding their pets.

Although our pets love to eat whatever they can get their paws on, with a shocking 49% of dogs and 44% of cats in the UK now considered overweight or obese by vets, we need to be careful to ensure they remain as happy and healthy as possible:

IAMS Nutrition Expert and Veterinary Training Manager, Kellie Ceccarelli, comments: “When faced with puppy-dog eyes, or an adorable cat brushing up against you, it’s easy to slip them a little treat from your plate.

"Giving in by feeding human foods may seem to please your pet, but in the long-term it can have damaging health implications, such as increasing the risk of heart problems, obesity and joint issues – particularly in older cats and dogs.

“It’s important to understand what your pet needs to be happy and healthy. A diet rich in high quality animal proteins, such as chicken and turkey, will help in maintaining optimal overall health for your pet, supporting a strong immune system, healthy skin and a shiny coat.”

IAMS Proactive Health contains high levels of protein in every bowl. With chicken and turkey protein as the number one ingredient, IAMS Proactive Health offers cats 47% more animal proteins and dogs 24% more protein than the top two leading brands.