A new survey from Admiral Pet Insurance reveals that obesity among cats and dogs is on the rise, with a sample of veterinary practices surveyed revealing a third (32%) noting an increase in overweight pets over the past year2. A survey of UK pet owners found that 36% of dog owners and 53% of cat owners have no idea how much their furry friends weigh1. The findings highlight 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 feed1. 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 intake1. 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 practices surveyed cited forgetting to account for treats in mealtime measurements2 as one of the most common mistakes pet owners make.
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 week1, 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. It’s important to be mindful of everything pets consume to keep them healthy and active.
Maintaining a healthy weight for pets starts with understanding the importance of portion control and calorie management, which can be achieved by following recommended guidelines3 and measuring food portions accurately and 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, as Admiral’s survey discovered that 45% of dog owners and 40% of cat owners say their pets receive 45 minutes or less of exercise per day1. Whilst recommended levels of exercise vary depending on age and breed, this is less than the minimum of one to two hours of exercise per day recommended by the pet charity PDSA.
Sheri Ingram, from Cardiff, who recently got her Corgi weighed, was shocked to find that in less than a year, he had put on 2kg. Last Christmas Biggie weighed 16, he is now 18, a 12.5% increase. Sheri says the latest cheese tax trend on social media, which sees owners’ bond with their canine pal while cooking is partly to blame:
“My husband and I regularly measure out Biggie’s food, so why was he looking so chunky? When I took him to the vet, I was shocked to find out just how much weight he had put on. It had to be down to other people – such as our dog walkers and parents. Admittedly, we have recently got into the habit of paying him the ‘cheese tax’, which he’s come to expect every time we’re cooking with cheese. We’ve since contacted everyone to ask them to be less generous with their treats. While poor Biggie won’t be happy about this, his weight shows just how many calories are packed into treats and cheese and I know that being overweight carries serious health risks. He’s our baby and we want him to be around for many years to come.”
Admiral’s Veterinary Specialist, Nicki Fox RVN CertVNECC APVN, highlights the importance of monitoring your pet’s weight:
“We understand that managing pet weight can be challenging, and the causes aren’t always straightforward. However, there are practical steps that pet owners can take to help keep their companions healthy and energetic. Ensuring pets receive the right portion sizes, monitoring calorie intake, and adjusting meals and treats accordingly are essential steps to maintain a balanced weight.
“There are many local vets that encourage owners to drop in and pop their pets on the scales in the waiting room – without the need to book an appointment. Ask your local vet practice if they have free weight clinics that your pet can attend.”
“Regular exercise suited to their age, breed, and health conditions is also key. It’s about finding the right balance for your pet and consulting veterinary professionals when needed to tailor their diet and activity level. Obesity can be linked to serious health risks such as joint issues, heart disease, and diabetes, but these can be managed with the right support. It’s also important to remember that some of these issues are down to breed dispositions, not just weight.
‘’The more aware you are of what you are feeding your pet and the activity levels they require, the easier you will find it to help keep your pet looking and feeling great.’’
As a subject close to his heart, Dr Scott Miller, resident vet on ITV’s This Morning, explains what can cause pets to become overweight, and provides his top tips for helping your pet lead a happy, healthy life:
“It is easy to feed your pet just a little too much every day; not counting the calories in treats, and skip a walk when the weather isn’t great, however this is a slippery slope that could contribute to your pet gaining weight. Pet food packaging has guidelines on portion sizes, but this can be confusing if you are unsure if your pet is currently an ideal weight. The advised portion sizes tend to have a range based on ideal body size but do not take into consideration various factors such as activity levels, age and any existing health concerns. If you are not sure of the weight of your pet, I’d recommend getting your pet weighed at your veterinary clinic and discussing your pet’s dietary needs.”
Dr Scott Miller’s, top five tips for helping your pet lead a happy and healthy life:
- Exercise – walking every day is great for you and your dog, promoting good cardiovascular health, socialisation and enjoying 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, my top tip is to keep it simple. Our pets have just a sixth of the taste buds as us, and are prone to dietary intolerances, allergies and gastro-intestinal upsets. Feeding ‘the spice of life’ is a recipe for disaster or diarrhoea, and increased visits to the vet.
- Nose to tail exam – a once daily check from head to toe can keep the vet away and pick up issues such as lumps, parasites or injuries early, and is a great way to understand what is ‘normal’ for your pet to avoid unnecessary vet visits.
- Preventative measures – worming, flea control and regular vet checks are the best way to avoid conditions which are preventable and pick up early those that are not.
- Quality time – Dedicate time to simply be with them, 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.
For more information, please visit www.admiral.com/overweightpets
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Image provided by Admiral.com