Pet obesity is on the rise, and the UK has the highest proportion of obese pets in the world.
In our support of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, Agria Pet Insurance is committed to spreading awareness of the responsibilities we have to our pets.
The causes of obesity include excess food, too many treats and not enough exercise. Breed, sex, and age can also contribute. As well as a reduced quality of life, obesity can cause:
- Heart disease
- Joint problems
- Diabetes
- Respiratory problems
- Cancer
Is my pet overweight?
- Place your hands on your pet’s shoulder blades and run them lightly along their back. You should be able to feel the outline of their ribs.
- Look from above – the curve of their waist behind their ribs should be visible.
- From the side, their waist should follow a clear line upwards behind their ribs and should not be sagging underneath.
- Weight – always monitor your pet’s weight by weighing regularly.
Treating the problem
Prevention is better than the cure, and always speak to your vet to rule out any medical conditions before making changes. They may then recommend:
- A feeding plan with regular weight checks
- Calorie-controlled food
- Gradual increase in exercise
- Cut out treats
For more information visit agriapet.co.uk
