New findings highlight worrying rise in pet obesity

A new survey from UK-based Admiral Pet Insurance reveals that obesity among cats and dogs is on the rise, with a third (32%) of veterinary practices surveyed noting an increase in overweight pets over the past year.

Indeed, the survey among UK pet lovers found that 36% of dog owners and 53% of cat owners have no idea how much their furry friends weigh. This highlights the importance for pet owners to keep their dogs and cats at a healthy weight, as obesity poses long-term health risks. Addressing this issue early can help ensure pets lead longer, happier lives.

The research reveals that common feeding habits are a key contributor: 71% of dog owners and 78% of cat owners admit they either don’t weigh pet food accurately, don’t stick to recommended portions, or are unaware of the correct amount to feed.

In addition to oversized meals, 78% of dog owners and 68% of cat owners offer treats daily or several times a week, further adding to calorie intake.With treats typically ranging from 30 to 180 calories each, this can quickly lead to weight gain.

Veterinary practices also report that many owners struggle with portion control, often swayed by their pets’ “puppy eyes”. Over a fifth (21%) of those surveyed cited forgetting to account for treats in mealtime measurements as one of the most common mistakes made by pet owners.

Over half of dog owners (53%) and over a third of cat owners (36%) admit to giving their pets food scraps daily or a few times a week, sometimes unaware that some human foods, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes, can be dangerous for pets. These scraps are frequently given in addition to regular pet treats, which can significantly increase calorie intake.

Maintaining a healthy weight for pets starts with understanding the importance of portion control and calorie management, which can be achieved by following recommended guidelines and measuring food portions accurately. Adjusting for treats can help reduce and, in some cases, even help prevent obesity-related health issues like joint problems and diabetes.

Lack of exercise is another contributing factor: the survey discovered that 45% of dog owners and 40% of cat owners say their pets receive 45 minutes or less of exercise a day. While recommended levels of exercise vary depending on age and breed, this is less than the minimum of 1-2 hours of exercise per day recommended by the pet charity PDSA.

While your furkids’ weight and health issues can be managed with the right support, it’s also important to remember that some of these issues are influenced by breed dispositions.

Finally, veterinarian and TV personality Dr Scott Miller offers five tips for helping your pet lead a happy and healthy life:

• Exercise: Walking every day is great for you and your dog; it promotes good cardiovascular health, socialisation, and a good old sniff. Cats need to either head outdoors for exercise, or use moving toys to get their heart rate up and waistline down.
• Diet: With so many foods out there, keep it simple. Pets have just a sixth of the taste buds as humans and are prone to dietary intolerances, allergies and gastrointestinal upsets.
• Nose-to-tail exams: A once-daily check from head to toe can keep the vet away and pick up issues such as lumps, parasites or injuries early. This is a great way to understand what is “normal” for your pet to avoid unnecessary vet visits.
• Preventative measures: Deworming, flea control and regular vet checks are the best way to avoid conditions that are preventable and pick up early those that are not.
• Quality time: Dedicate time to simply be with your pets, and actively think about when you are out, and how you adequately prevent boredom and separation anxiety to ensure they are healthy of mind and spirit.