Irish pet owners may be unintentionally reducing their pets’ lifespans by misjudging how much they weigh, according to fresh research and veterinary guidance from The Irish Blue Cross, reports Breaking News.
A survey of pet owners in Ireland found that over three-quarters believe people commonly underestimate how many pets are overweight or obese, reports Breaking News.
However, just 28 per cent of owners said they consider their own pet to be overweight.
The Irish Blue Cross said this points to a major disconnect between perception and reality when it comes to identifying unhealthy weight in pets, reports Breaking News.
Nearly half of those surveyed said they either weigh their pet just once a year or not at all.
The Irish Blue Cross said one in three owners who think their pet is “about the right” weight also say they cannot easily feel their pet’s ribs, a recognised indicator that a pet is overweight, reports Breaking News.
Head of veterinary services at The Irish Blue Cross, Dr Laura Mock, said: “Excess weight doesn’t just affect how a pet looks, it can affect how they feel, how they move, how they breathe, and even how long they live. Many owners don’t realise that gradual weight gain can quietly shorten a pet’s lifespan.
“Carrying extra weight can make pets more likely to develop conditions like arthritis which can be expensive to treat” reports Breaking News.
The findings also draw attention to how routine feeding behaviours may be worsening the issue.
Four in five owners, or 80 per cent, said they frequently give their pet treats or human food on a daily basis or several times a week, reports Breaking News.
The charity is encouraging pet owners to act early and collaborate with their veterinary professionals to help pets achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Veterinary surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross, Dr Ciara Sweeney, said: “While weighing pets regularly is important, weight alone doesn’t tell the full story, reports Breaking News.
“Understanding your dog or cat’s body shape and condition, including being able to feel their ribs easily with a light touch, helps determine if your pet is the correct weight for their breed, size, and build.
“We recommend weighing your pet’s food rather than using a measuring cup as, even a small amount of extra food every day can really add up, reports Breaking News.
“It’s also important to remember that feeding guidelines on pet food are just that, so please ask your Vet or Vet Nurse for advice about how much to feed your pet.”
The charity is urging owners to consistently monitor their pet’s weight and body condition, watch treat intake and portion sizes, and treat weight management as a key part of preventative healthcare, reports Breaking News.
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