Fat rabbit and obese bulldogs to compete in pet slimming competition

Bulldogs Cilla and Shyla have been on a very serious diet of late, hoping to lose 25kg between them, ITV reported.

They will be competing against 12 other pets, including a rabbit called Pebbles, fat cats Puff and Lucy, TyTy the Chihuahua, and Cavalier the King Charles Spaniel.

The owners of the bulldogs admitted to have fed the two many treats, including crumpets, pasta, and biscuits.

But things took a different direction when they were told by a vet that the two pets needed to lose weight.

They are now following a diet for six months and have a specially tailored exercise programme.

Pebbles, on the other hand, used to weigh 4.5kg, making him more than 50% over his ideal weight, due to eating high-sugar muesli-style food and staying indoors during the winter and rainy seasons.

Her weight problem resulted in her not being able to hop, and led her to suffering from 'sticky bum syndrome'; a syndrome that can result in serious other health problems if left untreated.

However, she has now managed to lose close to a kilo and weighs 3.6kg, thanks to a strict diet she is following and also exercise.

According to the Head Nurse at PDSA Pet Hospital, Lisa Williams, pet obesity is a serious issue. She added that obesity puts millions of British pets at risk of numerous health conditions.

The winner of the pet slimming competition will be announced at the end of the year.

Prizes include a pet friendly holiday and a year's supply of pet food - healthy food, obviously.