PETS in Notts are not as happy or healthy as they should be, a new report has shown.
More than half of cat owners in the county say their pets are overweight or obese and just 49 per cent of dog owners had taken their pets to training classes.
The results were published as part of a nationwide report by veterinary charity PDSA, which, for the first time, measured the wellbeing of pet cats, dogs and rabbits.
The report said that, while almost 90 per cent of pet owners in the East Midlands believed owners should have at least a basic understanding of a pet's welfare needs, only 45 per cent had done any research or received any advice.
Brian Chadwick, of Arnold, has a dog, Dolly, who is blind and diabetic.
Mr Chadwick, 70, said: "I think it should be compulsory for people to know about the welfare needs before they get a pet. Pet ownership is a privilege, not a right, and people must be prepared to take the time and effort to take proper care of their companions."
The report found problems affecting pets in Notts included stress, loneliness and aggression.
Rabbits are happiest with a companion but 62 per cent of rabbits in the region are kept alone. More than half of dogs were not taken to training classes in the first six months of their lives, which could lead to behavioural problems.
More than 11,000 owners nationwide were scored on how well they looked after their pets.
PDSA director of veterinary services Richard Hooker said: "Our report reveals that there is much work to do to raise awareness of what pets need to live a healthy life.
"It has enabled us to find out how pets are living today and identify areas of concern."
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