A CHARITY is searching for Bolton's fat cats and pudgy pups for a new competition.

Vet group PDSA is running its own slimming competition, Pet Fit Club, aiming to tackle a growing animal obesity crisis.

Now in its 15th year, the competition is bases on figures which reveal up to half of UK pets (46 percent of dogs, 34 percent of cats and 30 percent of rabbits) are believed to be overweight or obese.

The most common reasons given by UK vets and vet nurses for excess weight in pets are and owner’s lack of recognition that their pet is overweight, feeding ‘treats’ or human food and inappropriate portion sizes. All of which could be leaving our four-legged friend’s health, happiness and life-expectancy at serious risk.

Since 2005 Pet Fit Club has helped 143 pets (89 dogs, 44 cats, eight rabbits and two rats) lose 513kg (80st 12lb) – equivalent to a polar bear.

The 2019 Pet Fit Club Champ, Luigi the Beagle, lost an impressive 8.7kg (1st 5lb) – 30 percent of his bodyweight – and 8 inches from his waist.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Pet obesity has been a huge problem in the UK for many years and sadly there is no sign of improvement, with nearly one in every two pets seen by vets and vet nurses overweight or obese. This is a serious health issue, one of the biggest currently threatening pet wellbeing across the UK.

“Pets who are overweight or obese are much more likely to develop health problems such as arthritis and diabetes. Being overweight can also seriously aggravate other health problems, such as heart disease. For example, Pugs and French Bulldogs already struggle to breathe because of their flat faces, but carrying excess inches can make this much worse.

“Research has also shown that carrying too much weight can reduce a dog’s life expectancy by up to 2 years and 6 months."

To apply online, visit: pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub.