Just like humans, pets of all ages need to eat the right diet and have the right amount of exercise to live long, healthy, and happy lives. But, as many of us know, staying on track isn’t always easy.
Our annual PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report uncovers how healthy and happy the UK’s pets are. In 2021, the Report showed that over 1.4 million pets had gained weight since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic - millions of cats and dogs are overweight, out of shape and struggling.
Overweight pets are more likely to suffer from health problems such as diabetes and urinary tract disease - symptoms tend to develop when they are younger and are harder to manage. Excess fat can also worsen other health problems - such as arthritis and breathing difficulties - as well as increase anaesthetic and surgical risks, all of which could negatively affect your pet’s quality of life.
We’re working in partnership with Royal Canin to help tackle obesity in pets. Throughout February and March 2023, we’ll be encouraging pet owners to have their pets weighed, and their body condition scored at their local vets to help guide them to a happier, healthier future! Watch this space for more information coming soon.
Give your new puppy or kitten all the ingredients for a healthy, happy life
We know how exciting it is to welcome a new puppy or kitten into your home. Equally, we understand how daunting it can feel to be responsible for their health and happiness. Our helpful puppy and kitten guides will set you on the right path!
Puppies
Overweight dogs tend to have shorter lifespans and are at a much higher risk of developing serious diseases later in life. Our expert advice will help lay the foundations for your puppy’s future and ensure they maintain a healthy weight from the very beginning!
Kittens
Getting the basics right in the first few months of your kitten’s life is vital, so it’s important you know what they should eat and how much exercise is enough. To give them the best start in life, we need to help them to stay at a healthy weight - our expert advice will tell you how.
Find out if your dog or cat is the right weight
Whether you’re #TeamDog or #TeamCat (or both!), it’s your responsibility as an owner to ensure your pet is not overweight. Knowing and maintaining your pet’s ideal weight can extend their life, lower their risk of developing serious diseases and keep them happy!
Dogs
Want to know if your dog is out of shape? Our expert advice will help you figure out if they need to cut out the treats, put on some pounds or are the perfect sized pooch.
Cats
Want to know if your cat is tipping the scales in the right or wrong direction? Our expert advice will help you know whether your feline friend needs to move more or ditch the diet.
Illustrations by Steve Bridger 2021