Pet obesity. How can we help?

It is estimated that about 40% of UK dogs and 50% of cats are overweight.*

How can you help?

Grab your pet obesity guide

Expert videos

More resources

How obesity affects your pet

Obesity is a condition in which an excess of body fat has developed to the point that health is adversely affected.

Making sure your pet remains a healthy weight is important for you and your pet, as obese dogs and cats may have shortened life spans.

Overweight cats and dogs may also be predisposed to life-limiting conditions including;

Osteoarthritis
Diabetes
Heart disease
Many forms of cancer

Did you know?

over 60% of vets

say obesity is the biggest health and welfare concern for UK pets?**

*This is according to figures released by the British Veterinary Association in 2016.
https://www.bva.co.uk **https://www.pdsa.org.uk

You can make a difference and help your pet from becoming overweight by doing these small things.

Try to get more exercise
(it’s good for both of you)

As we become less active, so do our pets and this is having a bad effect on their health and wellbeing. Keeping them fit is important.

How can you keep your pet fit?

Take them out for a walk or just have more playtime around the house. Read our blog to find out the best ways to exercise your cat or dog. Please remember, the amount of exercise your pet needs depends on their age and breed.

So talk to your vet to check all is okay.

Feeding guidelines are useful in order to feed your pet properly.

Portion control is based on age, breed and size of pet. You can also switch to a lower calorie pet food if necessary.

We need to avoid overfeeding

You could also talk to your vet about the best ways to feed your pet because it can depend on your pet’s age, breed and general health.

Be treat aware

Try to give affection rather than unsuitable treats as rewards. We love our pets and we often show our love through food but if it’s making them unhealthy, time to try something else?

How can you reduce treats?

Please avoid human food as treats. Our pets have different nutritional needs than us. Resist the begging and, instead give affection as a reward. They’ll love it!

Download our free guides
to preventing and recognising pet obesity

Just as it is with us humans, animal obesity is a serious health issue and can lead to all sorts of health complications for our pets. Here at Animal Friends we aim to help people understand the dangers of obesity and learn how to prevent it in their pets.

We recommend you consult with your vet before embarking on a weight-loss programme for your pet.

Check if your cat is overweight

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Check if your dog is overweight

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Listen to the experts

Meet vet Vaughan

Vaughn Stoman runs the Springbok Veterinary Group based in Hampshire. He believes that pets have a therapeutic part to play in our lives – adding quality and a sense of meaning to us as humans. The relationship that we have with them enhances our lives.

How can you tell if your dog is obese?

Watch Video Read

Vaughn and Nelly tell us how to check if your pet is in good condition just by looking and feeling their ribs, waist and spine.

How can you tell if your cat is obese?

Watch Video Read

Vaughn Stoman tells us how feeding and hunting play a big part in your cat’s diet and how it’s different to controlling a dog’s diet.

Why is obesity in pets so worrying?

Watch Video Read

Vaughn Stoman tells us about the importance of a dog’s diet and choice of food when it comes to avoiding pet obesity.

Meet Jo an animal behaviorist

Jo is a member of the COAPE Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers (CAPBT). Jo graduated with her COAPE Diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour Therapy and Training in 1999 and has worked extensively as a head nurse and a professional referral pet behaviour therapist and dog trainer.