It seems our pets are suffering from post-holiday weight gain

A recent study by the pet nutrition brand, Royal Canin, has found one in two cats and dogs in New Zealand are considered overweight.

It seems almost a quarter of cat and dog owners sometimes overfeed their pet to keep them 'happy'.

The New Zealand Veterinary Association's Helen Beattie says people should figure out what's best for their pet -- if they're looking a little chunky.

She says the best place to go is the vet, who understands individual animal needs, and will make sure the kind of food which is chosen by the owner -- is safe.