Analysis by MORE TH>N revealed obesity was a significant factor in six of the 12 most common pet insurance claims it received in 2018.

It said having a cat or dog which was overweight or which was not having enough exercise could contribute to the development or complexity of these conditions. Indeed, it could also impact the animals rate of recovery from these illnesses.

Claims for these conditions average at 900 compared to the 722 for the top 12 conditions overall. And MORE TH>N said this was most likely because obesity could make it harder to treat these types of illness a factor which drives up vet fees.

MORE TH>N revealed it received over 9,000 claims and paid out more than 8 million for this top six obesity-influenced conditions in 2018.

The problem, it said, was largely caused by pets not getting enough exercise and having a poor diet.

Andrew Moore, director of Pet Claims at MORE TH>N, and a qualified vet, said: As an insurer and a former vet, I regularly see the issues pet obesity can cause and its a worrying trend.

Pet owners are responsible for keeping their pets healthy, but the truth is many cats and dogs arent getting enough exercise.

In a bid to help pet owners, MORE TH>N than partnered with PitPat, which makes dog activity monitors, to offer free membership to the service for customers who take out pet insurance in November.

Being a member means you will be entitled to a free PitPat monitor which is attached to your dogs collar to monitor their exercise and weight.

The monitor works with a free app that sets a daily exercise goal based on the dogs breed and age, and users earn points for reaching their goal.

These points can be exchanged for prizes, including up to 100 cashback for MORE TH>N customers.

Andy Nowell, CEO of PitPat, said: Every owner wants to do the best for their pet, but sometimes we all need a little help.

As diet also plays a crucial role in keeping pets healthy, MORE TH>N has provided advice on managing your dog or cats diet here.

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How helping your dog shed the pounds could save you money - The Money Pages