Obesity in animals a growing trend

One in three cats and dogs is overweight; 70% of kittens and puppies are fed adult food, while others switch too early.

This was some of the statistics published by Royal Canin in commemoration of World Animal Day, observed annually on 4 October.

While welcoming a new cat or dog, kitten or puppy into the home is fun and exciting, prospective pet parents must remember the responsibility and commitment they bring.

This starts with the well-being of your pet; ensuring a healthy diet from the get go to prevent diseases further down the line.

Numerous adult cats and dogs suffer from illnesses that could have been prevented through good nutrition in their younger years.

According to pet care experts, some of the main things to focus on when adopting a pet is establishing good habits such as brushing their teeth, grooming and exercise. It is also important to socialise pets early on and develop certain behaviour.

Regular vet check-ups are also recommended, either annual or bi-annual, rather than limiting vet visits to when the animal is sick or injured.

Weight issues are a serious concern among veterinary professionals, as this may shorten the animal’s lifespan or negatively affect its quality of life.

They are also at greater risk of long-term illnesses like diabetes, lower urinary tract diseases, and osteoarthritis.

A study by Banfield shows this problem often occurs during the pet’s early stages of life and develops over time.

Research conducted in the UK by Professor Alexander German from the Royal Canin Weight Management Clinic concluded that 37% of dogs under 18 months were overweight.

While a chubby puppy or kitten may look cute to some, the extra weight puts the pet at risk of diseases.

All pet owners are urged to follow dietary recommendations as advised by their vet to ensure optimum health and quality of life for their beloved animals.

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