Big eyes and a slanted head that looks at you. Pet owners know their four-legged friend’s pleas for a treat all too well. They are irresistible. And so we give another piece of sausage. Even if the dog, guinea pig or cat is actually too heavy. Recognizable to you?
Almost half of the companion animals in the Netherlands are overweight. This is the conclusion of researchers from Utrecht University. At least ten percent of the animals are even obese. The causes: eating too much, exercising too little or a combination of the two. “All those extras that you give pets also contribute to this,” researcher Ronald Corbee told Algemeen Dagblad.
round is good
An overweight cat, guinea pig or dog is not without risk. Animals can develop osteoarthritis or risk diabetes. Why do we give our four-legged friend a treat so often? “Many owners are not even aware that their pet is overweight. The image we have of pets in society is not exactly healthy either: we think round is good. Animals then look cozy,” says Eline van Zoest of the PETComfort veterinary clinic in Utrecht.
We also like to spoil our pet, because we see it as a child or faithful companion, Corbee adds.
Just chunk
So do not continuously give sweets or treats, the experts advise. Van Zoest: “And if you do want to give a cat something, take a ‘normal’ kibble and give that as a reward. With a dog, we often advise to cycle with the animal, so that they get some more exercise.”
Rack
We’re curious how well you can resist your pet’s pleas. Respond to our statement. You can also leave a detailed comment at the bottom of the article!
I can’t resist a pleading look from my pet, even if it’s too heavy
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