A new study by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) reveals that a significant obesity crisis is affecting British pets. Approximately 87% of pet owners, aware that obesity can shorten their pets' lives, still frequently feed them high-calorie foods such as takeaways, biscuits, chips, and even alcohol. With an estimated 18 million pets in the UK, around 2.5 million dogs (one in three) and over 2 million cats (one in four) are considered overweight.
Read More
The PDSA attributes this issue to owners sharing their own unhealthy eating habits with their pets in a misguided effort to make them happy. Elaine Pendlebury, a senior veterinary surgeon at the PDSA, noted that instances of morbidly obese pets are becoming commonplace in veterinary practices across the UK. She describes pet obesity as a "silent killer," capable of reducing a pet's lifespan by up to two years and increasing the risk of serious health issues such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
The survey, which involved 2,078 pet owners, indicated that pets in Scotland are most affected, with 72% of owners admitting to feeding their animals junk food. This is followed by Wales at 69% and the North West at 64%. London reported the best results, yet nearly half (48%) of pet owners there still overfeed their animals.
To address this growing concern, the PDSA has launched its annual Pet Fit Club, an initiative aimed at providing education and veterinary support to combat pet obesity. Dr. Philippa Yam, an expert in animal obesity at the University of Glasgow’s School of Veterinary Medicine, emphasized the urgency of the findings, stating that diet is one of the most misunderstood welfare needs for pets. She expressed optimism over the PDSA's program, which has had a significant impact by raising awareness and helping to reverse the condition.