Don’t spoil pets with rich food
One of the best ways to help your cat or dog enjoy a long, healthy life is to maintain its correct weight. Sweets, bones and rich food are not the way to go. Rather play a game or go for a walk.
CHRISTMAS is a time of giving and this includes indulging the family pet, so says a survey of South African pet owners.
Seven out of ten people said they buy presents for their pets, and more than half put their pet’s gift under the tree. Edible treats are the most popular choice, followed by toys.
Nearly four out of ten pets share their family’s Christmas lunch according to the survey. Others said they would be feeding their dog juicy bones and one said he would be treating his dog to a fast food burger on the 25th.
However, Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinary advisor for Hill’s Pet Nutrition sounds a note of caution against over-indulging your pet during the holidays. “One of the best ways to help your cat or dog enjoy a long, healthy life is to maintain its correct weight. Sweets, bones and rich food are not the way to go. Rather play a game or go for a walk,” he said.
Research has shown that dogs at their optimum weight live longer (by at least two years) and are simply happier. Obese dogs that lost weight exhibited more vitality, less ’emotional disturbance’ and pain.
“Fat cats and dogs are clinically proven to be sadder, and are at an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and cancer. Don’t think you are demonstrating love for your pet. When you over-feed or indulge them, you may actually be shortening their life,” Dr Fyvie said.
