Just like their owners, a growing number
of British pets are becoming obese and face chronic illnesses
such as heart complaint, diabetes and arthritis, according
to recent research.
A survey of British vets and owners showed that one in
three pets, or 33 percent, were considered overweight
and 38 percent of pet owners said their animals put on
weight over Christmas.
Despite this, few owners plan to put their pets on a
diet.
"Pets, like their owners, tend to expand a little over
the Christmas period," said Frances Wright at Halifax
Pet Insurance, who conducted the survey.
The survey said signs of obesity included a sagging stomach,
bulging sides and a reluctance to take exercise.
About 30,000 human deaths a year in Britain are attributable
to obesity, health experts say.
