Pandemic feeding frenzy also spurs pet obesity

Covid-19 has had a profound effect on all of us, including our pets.

And recent research undertaken in the US has reveal that more than 71% of pet professionals say the pandemic has impacted on the way our pets are eating.

Over 30% of people with an overweight pet questioned said their pet had become overweight since the start of the pandemic.

Some 50% of pets are overweight but, alarmingly, 90% of pet parents don’t realise this.

For many, their love for their pets is associated with food.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition has decided to draw attention to pet obesity.

Marycke Ackhurst pet behaviour expert from Hill’s said food is often seen as a means of emotional support – using food as a reward when we are feeling depressed, lonely or are celebrating.

Pet parents get an emotional boost when feeding or giving treats to their pet. The pet’s reaction is seen as a display of love and affection, and owners are afraid that changing their pet’s feeding habits could result in it not loving them as much.

“Having an emotional relationship with food can both create the problem of pet obesity and ultimately solve it, by changing what’s in their bowl,” says

Ackhurst. “Food is actually love, and one of the easiest steps is better nutrition and being more aware of [the impact] your feeding habits have on your pet.”

So, what would you give up to help your pet lose weight?

A recent survey undertaken by Hill’s showed that:

49% of pet parents said they would be willing to go on a diet to help their pet lose weight,

31% said they would be willing to stop checking their social media for a month to help their pet lose weight.

What veterinary surgeons advise:

92% say giving fewer treats will help dog and cats lose weight,

91% say exercise is an important element, and

49% agree that keeping pets at a healthy weight during the pandemic is hard.

Says Ackhurst: “If you are unsure as to whether your pet is overweight, visit your vet, who will then do a weight check and advise you on the best steps to take should your pet be overweight.”

For more information on pet obesity, weight management and the success thousands of pets have enjoyed on the Hill’s Pet Slimmer Programme, visit