Study Reveals Pandemic's Impact on Pet Weight Gain

Among the key findings, dog owners reported difficulty encouraging exercise, with a third of them facing challenges in getting their pets active. Additionally, 20 percent admitted to giving their pets more treats during the pandemic. Owners with overweight pets were also more likely to describe their animals as bored or needy.

Veterinarians reported that 45 percent of dogs and 43 percent of cats seen since the pandemic began were classified as overweight or obese. The study was conducted online from November 23 to November 30, 2020, involving over 200 veterinarians and 1,000 pet owners. Nearly half the pet owners had dogs, with a similar number owning cats.

The research identified excessive snacking and decreased exercise as the primary factors contributing to weight gain. Over 20 percent of pet owners noted that they provided more treats than before the pandemic, particularly among those with overweight pets. The change in work routines and more time spent at home likely contributed to increased snacking and reduced activity levels for pets.

This upward trend in pet obesity mirrors previous findings, such as a 2018 report from Nationwide, which linked rising obesity in pets to significant veterinary costs. The report noted that pet obesity can lead to serious health risks, including cancer and heart disease.

As the holiday season approaches, nearly 44 percent of pet owners expect both themselves and their pets to gain weight, corroborated by veterinarians who predict an increase in overweight or obese patients in January. To address these concerns, pet owners are encouraged to consult their veterinarians for advice on managing their pets' health.