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PDSA releases results of Big Weigh In 2024
1,262 pets were weighed as part of the campaign.
Almost half of all pets were overweight or obese.

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has released the findings of its Big Weigh In, revealing a concerning trend for both dogs and cats.

The statistics highlighted that 45 per cent of all pets weighed during February and March had a body condition score (BCS) of six and over, meaning they were overweight or obese.

This was in line with predictions made by veterinary professionals, which estimated that around half of all dogs and cats were overweight or obese. Veterinary professionals believe that 43 per cent of cats and 46 per cent of dogs are overweight or obese.

Throughout an eight-week period, the PDSA Big Weigh In saw more than 500 veterinary practices across the United Kingdom invite pet owners for a free weight check appointment for their pet.

In total, 1,262 pets were weighed during the campaign, reaching a cumulative weight of 17,802kg – which is equivalent to three large elephants. Of the pets involved in the campaign, 76 per cent were dogs and 24 per cent were cats.

The findings reflect trends published in the PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report, which revealed that 49 per cent of veterinary professionals had seen an increase in pet obesity in the past two years. A quarter of veterinary professionals considered obesity one of the top five welfare issues among dogs.

The PDSA also says that 82 per cent of pet owners are unaware of their pet’s body condition score, which calculates whether they are underweight, an ideal weight, or overweight.

However, the PDSA remains optimistic about the campaign’s effect on pet obesity.

Gemma Renwick, a PDSA veterinary nurse, said: “This is a step forward in the bid to tackle the pet obesity crisis,

“The campaign has reached more than 60 million people so we know the message is getting out to pet owners. It’s brilliant to see so many pet owners get involved in the campaign and start the journey of helping their pet with their weight.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.