Warning over the real fat cats

More than half of British cats and dogs have grown so fat on a diet of sugar and treats that their health is at risk.

More than half of British cats and dogs have grown so fat on a diet of sugar and treats that their health is at risk.

Vets working for the veterinary charity PDSA believe the majority of canine and feline pets are over-fed or have a diet of too much sugar.

Animals are mirroring health problems in the humans population by developing breathing difficulties, joint and heart problems, and diabetes.

PDSA, which runs 45 PetAid hospitals, launched a PetCheck Programme yesterday to encourage owners to be more aware of their animals' health.

Vets at PetAid hospitals say half of the cats and dogs they treat could be classed as overweight.

Four out of five dogs over six years old suffer from gum disease, which can lead to serious heart and kidney problems.

Marilyn Rydstrom, the PDSA director general said the organisation wanted to draw attention to avoidable complaints. "This will enable our veterinary surgeons and nurses to concentrate on caring for gravely ill animals when illness or injury strikes."