Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Warning over the real fat cats

Graham Hiscott
Wednesday 17 July 2002 19:00 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

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."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in