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Press Articles...
18/10/04 - News section
Cats and Dogs have their own obesity crisis
Obesity is on the rise in pets as the general health of the
nation's animals declines, according to research today.
And as with humans, the increase in the numbers of paunchy
pets is being blamed mainly on overfeeding, lack of exercise
and poor diet, according to the study.
The research for pet insurer More Than found almost 80% of
vets are seeing increasing numbers of obese pets, yet 90%
of owners believe their pets are not overweight.
They also found three-fifths of vets are reporting a growing
number of 'human style' illnesses and disorders such as diabetes
and arthritis.
Sophie de Pelet, Veterinary Advisor for the insurer said:
"Pining by a cat or dog is often read as a sign of hunger,
and hence owners feed them, rather than recognising that it
is more often than not a call for attention.
"Pets begin to log these traits and play up to their owners,
and as a result, without even realising it, owners could be
increasing the risks of obesity and related illness such as
diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure."
And after interviewing 100 vets and 2,500 owners the researchers
discovered just over a quarter of pets have suffered from
behavioural problems, such as hyperactivity, stress and depression.
They say the cause could be people spending more time away
from the home and changes to lifestyles such as a new baby
or an additional pet.
Pets' health deteriorating
Ms de Pelet added alternative treatments and diets could
be prescribed to help fight pets' problems: "Obesity and behavioural
symptoms are significantly on the increase as the health of
the nations pets is in decline.
"A lot of attention is paid to the impact of factors such
as poor diets and the stress of family break ups on humans
and their health, yet what we are seeing is that our pets
are suffering in a similar way.
"As vets, we are now able to treat a wider range of illnesses
than we could ten years ago, yet the state of pets' health
in the UK is deteriorating.
"Not only can the traditional methods of medicine be applied,
but alternative treatments and dietary advice can now be prescribed."
She advised owners to ensure pets had regular health and
weight checks, to monitor food consumption carefully, and
ensure daily exercise.
Find this story at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=322348&in_page_id=1770
©2004 Associated New Media
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