Pet Obesity on the Rise as 91.7% Feed Human Food

Today’s pet parents go the extra mile to ensure their furry friends live happy, healthy lives. However, there’s one aspect they tend to struggle on—nutrition for their pets to stay healthy. Leading pet food brand ROYAL CANIN®, a leader in ‘Health through Nutrition’ for cats and dogs recently surveyed 2000 dog and cat parents aged 18 and above across 84 cities in India, uncovering significant insights into pet feeding habits and their implications for pet health. Here are some of the survey’s key findings:

 ROYAL CANIN® survey revealed that an overwhelming 91.7% of pet owners feed their pets human food, with 32.3% doing so occasionally and a mere 4.6% stating they would never consider it. Among the types of human food shared, 66.5% of respondents reported giving cooked meals, followed by eggs (53.71%), fish (52.8%), raw meat (50.9%), vegetables (44%), and leftovers (20.3%).

 The survey also explored factors contributing to pet obesity, a growing concern among Indian pet owners. Overfeeding was cited by 32% as the leading cause, poor quality pet food (18.9%), and feeding human food (13.1%). Additionally, barriers to maintaining a healthy pet weight included a lack of understanding of what constitutes a healthy weight (33.9%), insufficient exercise (33.6%), the high cost of quality pet food (29.55%), time constraints (23.35%), and misinformation (22.5%).

 The Pan-India survey revealed that more than half (54.7%) of pet parents primarily seek information or advice on nutrition, health weight and obesity in pets from professionals, including vets, vet nurses, and nutritionists. In comparison, 34% of dog and cat parents turn to online content and websites for guidance. Interestingly, about 23.5%  pet parents rely on social media platforms like Instagram to gather information regarding their pets nutrition and healthy weight.

 Mr Satinder Singh, General Manager of Royal Canin, India, commented, “Our comprehensive survey highlights a deep bond between Indian pet owners and their pets, often expressed through sharing human food. However, this practice, while well-intentioned, can contribute to health issues like obesity if not balanced with proper nutrition. Choosing scientifically formulated pet food ensures pets receive the precise nutrients they need as per their life stages, size, breed, lifestyle and sensitivities for long-term health. At Royal Canin, we are deeply committed to the concept of ‘Health through Nutrition’, ensuring each cat and dog receives scientifically tailored complete and balanced diet for better quality of life.”

About the Research:

• Sample Size: 2000 pet parents (dog and cat owners)
• Age Group: 18+ years
• Markets covered: India (surveyed by Censuswide- The Research Consultant)
• Timeline of the Survey: 14th March to 21st March 2025

About ROYAL CANIN®:  

The Royal Canin Division, owner of the ROYAL CANIN® brand, is part of Mars, Incorporated and a global leader in Health Through Nutrition for cats and dogs. Founded in 1968 by French veterinarian Dr Jean Cathary, Royal Canin continues to push the limits of nutrition and knowledge in partnership with pet professionals and experts to fulfil its Purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.

Royal Canin collaborates with partners, including breeders and veterinarians, not only to design precise, science-based nutrition for cats and dogs but also to develop a variety of tools and services to generate a significant positive impact on pet health. The company does this in a respectful, responsible, and sustainable way towards pets, people, and the planet.

Operating in more than 120 markets, Royal Canin counts over 8,000 Associates, including more than 400 veterinarians and nutritionists. It runs 17 factories and 2 pet centres around the globe (our innovation centres), one Research & Development centre, and 7 laboratories from the Mars network.  

Royal Canin also owns the EUKANUBA brand outside of Europe, a high-performance nutritional offer for dogs, and NOM NOM, a fast-growing U.S.-based Direct-to-Consumer pet food company. To learn more about Royal Canin, visit www.royalcanin.com.