Recent data indicates a growing concern about pet obesity in the UK, with 77% of veterinarians believing it is an increasing issue. Research by the Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA) shows that many pet owners underestimate the severity of this problem; 63% think more important issues are at play for their pets.
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The underlying causes of pet weight gain include owners not adhering to feeding guidelines—72% for cats, 60% for small animals, and 28% for birds—and excessive use of leftover food for treats, particularly among dog owners (78%). Insufficient exercise is another significant factor, with 46% of vets indicating that cats and 44% of dogs lack enough physical activity.
In response to these findings, the PFMA has initiated a Facebook campaign called #GetPetsFit. Zara Boland, founder of Vet Voice Ltd, emphasized the health risks associated with obesity, comparing the issue to human health concerns such as osteoarthritis and diabetes. Boland highlighted that obesity is a disease that can lead to emotional distress and financial strain for owners and can reduce a pet's lifespan.
According to the PFMA’s ‘Pet Obesity: Five Years On’ report, while pet owners have become more aware of obesity, a discrepancy remains—45% of vets believe the pets they examine are overweight, while 63% of owners think their pets are at a healthy weight. While 93% of pet owners would be alarmed to learn their pet is overweight, only 37% know how to accurately assess their pet's weight.
Veterinarians recommend that treats should be given sparingly and factored into meal plans. Despite this guidance, nearly half of pet owners (48%) feed their pets treats more than twice a day, which can lead to obesity. Some owners supplement their pets' diets with human food, but many of these options can be unsuitable or even toxic, such as chocolate and onions.
Exercise is pivotal in combating pet obesity. Vets recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise for adult dogs, 40 minutes for indoor cats, and four hours for rabbits daily, although individual needs may vary. While around 31% of owners provide an hour's exercise a day, many rabbit and bird owners mistakenly believe that no exercise is necessary.
To combat pet obesity, 78% of UK vets are running successful obesity clinics, with a 49.5% success rate. Additional resources for pet weight management are available through initiatives such as PFMA’s annual Weigh in Wednesday.