Veterinary surgeons across the UK are warning of a huge increase in obese pets, plus a general decline in pet health, according to a study by leading pet insurer MORE THAN. The study, which interviewed approximately 100 vets and 2500 British pet owners found that almost 80% of vets surveyed are seeing increasing numbers of obese pets.

Britain's pet health problems and stress related illnesses are on the rise despite increases in sales of life-stage pet foods and pet healthcare products.

The MORE THAN survey found:

8 out of 10 vets are seeing increasing numbers of obese pets, yet 90% of pet owners believe that their pets are not overweight.

Excess levels of salt and fats found in pet food.

Just over a quarter of pets have suffered from stress or behavioural problems.

Three-fifths of vets are reporting a growing number of 'human style' illnesses and disorders such as diabetes and arthritis.

MORE THAN blames the obesity problem on over-feeding, followed by lack of exercise and poor diet. In contrast, the company says, only one in ten pet owners believes their cat or dog to be overweight. A worrying gap is developing between the opinions of owners and pet health experts, which, if not addressed properly, could lead to the health of Britain's pets deteriorating even further.

The survey also highlights an increase in conditions that are often associated with humans - just over a quarter of pets have suffered from some form of behavioural problem such as hyperactivity, stress and depression. People spending more time away from the home and changes to lifestyles such as a new baby or an additional pet can be causes of these behavioural problems for both cats and dogs.

Sophie de Pelet, Veterinary Advisor for MORE TH>N comments:

"The key thing for pet owners is to understand their animals and not to misinterpret their behaviour. 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."

She continues:

"Obesity and behavioural symptoms are significantly on the increase as the health of the nation’s 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. Diet is the biggest issue as many pet foods and particularly treats contain too much sugar and salt and the fact that most owners are unaware of this is something that needs to be addressed.

"Until now, the connection between human behaviour and its affects on pets has not been noted so significantly. This study not only highlights the typical complaints vets are seeing on a regular basis, and how treatments are changing, but it also shows that pet owners may be unaware of possible serious problems."

She concluded:

"As vets, we are now able to treat a wider range of illnesses than we could ten years ago, yet the state of pet's 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."

Sophie de Pelet highlights a number of steps for pet owners to follow:

1. Take your pet for regular health and weight checks, which can be carried out by a veterinary nurse at your local surgery.

2. Monitor food consumption carefully, remembering to account for titbits and treats.

3. Ensure your pet has daily exercise, which is vital for its general and mental health.

4. Be aware of your pet's ideal weight (breed standards can be helpful or ask advice from your pet health professional). An unaccountable increase or decrease in weight could be an early indication of inappropriate feeding or illness.

For further information, go to MORE TH>N's 'Healthy Pet Guide' at www.morethan.com/pet.

Pet Insurance

MORE TH>N’s research shows that 95% of vets believe pet insurance is a responsible thing for pet owners to have. Insurance provides pet owners peace of mind that they can afford the vet's bills should their animal become ill.

For a MORE THAN pet insurance quote can call 0800 300 885 or go to www.morethan.com/pet.

Submitted by: Steve O'Malley      

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