It is the scourge of modern society and a lack of physical activity and over-indulging has long been known to be fuelling worryingly high rates of obesity.
But it seems that as our waistlines expand so too do those of our pampered pets and vets are now more concerned than ever about the numbers of animals they see who are suffering from dangerous ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity- related cancer.
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In particular, it is fat cats that have been put under the spotlight recently with scientists from Edinburgh University announcing that one in every 230 felines suffers from obesity.
“This is the first study of its kind among cats in the UK and the results show extremely worrying levels,” says Professor Danielle Gunn-Moore of the university’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
“The lifestyle of cats, just like their owners, is changing. They are tending to eat too much, gain weight and take less exercise.
“Unfortunately, just like people, cats will over-eat if they are offered too much tasty food, particularly if they are bored and have little else to do.
“While cats would naturally exercise outside, many are now housebound - perhaps because they live in a flat or because their owners feel that it is too dangerous to let them out - so they have little to do all day but eat, sleep, and gain weight.”
And it isn’t just cats that are piling on the pounds. Over-zealous dog owners are also guilty of endangering their pets by giving them too many treats.
And while it may be that their pet has become increasingly cuddly, there are serious implications with increasing numbers of animals being diagnosed with fat-related illnesses.
Diabetes in cats is a serious and often life-threatening condition and affected animals need daily insulin injections and a special diet. They also have an increased risk of developing pancreatic disease, urinary tract infections and many other health problems.
Doreen Graham of the Scottish SPCA recalls one incident where drastic action had to be taken to save an animal’s life.
“Cassie - a Border Collie and Spaniel cross - was nine and a half stone when she was brought to us three years ago,” recalls Doreen. “She was six years old and had been very badly abused.
“Her owner at the time had been feeding her things like cooked breakfasts and food that the rest of the household was eating which was not good for her at all.
“Everyone felt so bad for the dog that they just wanted to help. We all organised a sponsored slim-a-thon which earned around £320.
“It took about eight or nine months for Cassie to get down to her target weight but the first time she chased a ball everyone celebrated.”
It is actually a criminal offence for owners to neglect their pet’s nutritional needs and risking their health and action can be taken under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
Scottish SPCA veterinary service manager Ian Futter says:
“If you can feel the animal’s ribs through its skin then it is healthy,” explains Ian.
“If your pet begins to become sluggish and you can no longer feel the ribs though their skin then they should probably lose some weight.
“It is quite easy to put a dog or cat on a diet but I recommend you take them to the vet first.
“Another thing to remember is that you mustn’t starve your pet. No matter what, they still need a balanced diet which is why they should be examined by a vet before cutting down food.”
For Cassie, things have turned out well. She now lives with a loving family in Edinburgh.
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