In the US, over 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are now estimated to be overweight or obese according to the  Association for Pet Obesity Prevention . The third annual National Pet Obesity Awareness Day Study, conducted in October 2009, found that from 2007 to 2009, the number of overweight dogs and cats increased by 2% and 5%, respectively.

"Pet obesity is now the biggest health threat to pets in the US," said lead researcher Dr. Ernie Ward. "The costs of obesity in illness and injury make it the number one medical issue seen in today's veterinary hospitals."