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Pet insurers point to obese animals

22/09/2004

The nation's pets are getting increasingly fatter - but that nine out of ten owners say their pets are not overweight.

Eight out of ten vets are seeing a huge increase in the numbers of obese pets brought in, according to research - with 95 per cent of veterinarians saying that with the deterioration in the health of the animal population Pet Insurance brings peace of mind to owners.

"A lot of attention is paid to the impact of factors such as poor diets and the stress of family break ups on humans and their health, yet what we are seeing is that our pets are suffering in a similar way," said Sophie de Pelet, veterinary advisor for MORE TH>N.

The increase in weight has been attributed to over-feeding, followed by lack of exercise and poor diet, with higher levels of salt and fat being found in pet food.

"The key thing for pet owners is to understand their animals and not to misinterpret their behaviour," said Ms De Pelet.

"Pining by a cat or dog is often read as a sign of hunger and hence owners feed them rather than recognising that it is more often than not a call for attention.

"Pets begin to log these traits and play up to their owners, and as a result, without even realising it, owners could be increasing the risks of obesity and related illness such as diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure."

Allowing your pet to get overweight is likely to lead to a visit to the vet sooner or later.

As Brits spend more and more money pampering their pets, perhaps its time more owners took out a Pet Insurance policy to protect themselves against the nasty surprise of a big vet's bill.

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Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. This can be checked on the FSA Register by visiting its web site at www.fsa.gov.uk/register.
Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited. Company No: 856706 registered in England at Shurdington Road, Cheltenham Spa, Gloucestershire GL51 4UE.