More than 18 million pets are being fed deadly diets putting them at risk of a miserable life and an early grave, a leading veterinary charity has warned.
Research by PDSA shows that more dogs, cats and rabbits than ever are being fed a potentially life-threatening mix of high calorie, inappropriate diets. If coupled with little or no exercise their life-spans will often be cut short by preventable obesity-related conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and heart disease.
To help tackle this, PDSA has launched its annual pet slimming competition to find the UK’s fattest pets and help them get fit. The charity aims to transform them from obese and unhappy into happier, healthier animals. Owners can enter their pets at www.pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub – the deadline for entries is Friday 12 April.
New findings from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report show that a massive 18.5 million pets are regularly being fed inappropriate diets that aren’t as healthy as they should be, with 13.5 million of these regularly receiving fatty and sugary treats such as takeaways, crisps and cakes.
Elaine Pendlebury, PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, said: “Pet obesity poses not only major health risks such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease, but sadly also means daily misery for millions of pets who are feeling the strain from carrying too much weight.
“Vet practices across the UK see the consequences of pet obesity every single day such as obese dogs unable to enjoy regular walks due to exhaustion, fat cats that can’t jump or play, and rabbits so hopelessly overweight they can’t clean themselves properly. And then there are other obesity-related health conditions which can mean pets don’t lead the long and happy lives they should.
Many owners do realise the devastating impact obesity can cause – 91% understand that pets will have a shortened lifespan if overweight and 93% realise that pets can get the same obesity-related conditions as people. However, this is not translating into positive behaviour change by owners.
Dr Alex German, leading animal obesity specialist at the University of Liverpool Veterinary School says: “Our own clinical study demonstrated that overweight pets suffer from decreased vitality, as well as more anxiety and emotional disturbances, whilst other studies demonstrate increased risk of developing obesity-related diseases and greater likelihood of experiencing pain when supersized. I’m pleased that PDSA is highlighting the national pet obesity problem, which is entirely preventable and can be reversed with veterinary supervision and owner dedication.”
Elaine adds: “Diet is one of the most misunderstood welfare needs for pets. But it’s never too late to make a positive change and over the years the pets taking part in our Pet fit Club competition have all been given a new lease of life. Owners have reported that once their pet has lost weight it has made their pet much happier as well as healthier.”
