Brands
Paw-sitive steps needed as pet obesity balloons globally
MUMBAI: In a world where pets are cherished like family, a weighty problem is growing literally. Nearly 40 per cent of adult cats and dogs are now considered overweight or obese globally, according to a recent study by Royal Canin, and the scale isn’t tipping in their favour anytime soon.
As part of its 25th Vet Symposium held in Montpellier, the pet nutrition leader revealed findings from a multi-country survey of over 14,000 pet owners and 1,750 veterinary professionals that shines a spotlight on a creeping crisis: most pet parents are in the dark when it comes to managing healthy weight. In fact, 26 per cent of respondents admitted they don’t even know what their pet’s ideal weight should be.
Even more alarmingly, 17 per cent cited misinformation as a major barrier to keeping pets fit. Social media emerged as an unexpected culprit while it’s the go-to for over 55 per cent of Gen Z pet owners seeking nutritional advice, it’s also where myths can spiral. As veterinary professionals struggle to cut through the noise, nearly one in three said mixed messages are making it harder to talk honestly with owners about weight.
“At Royal Canin, we believe that better health starts with better conversations,” shared Royal Canin R&D team member and a veterinary nutritionist Tabitha Hookey focused on obesity and diabetes. “Through providing accessible and credible information, we’re aiming to support pet owners with clear, science-based advice to help more pets live their healthiest lives. Through partnering with an expert panel and using social media to maximise our outreach, with this campaign, we hope to be able to empower even more pet owners with a better understanding of healthy pet nutrition and weight management and, ultimately, to promote dialogue with the veterinary professionals that care for their pets.”
University of Liverpool Small Animal Medicine in UK Professor Alex German comments, “Pet obesity can have a serious impact on both quality of life and lifespan. Helping pets maintain a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do to ensure they live longer, happier lives. Encouraging open, supportive conversations between veterinary professionals and pet owners is key to making good nutrition and weight management a natural part of everyday pet care.”
The problem often starts early. The study revealed that nutritional imbalances during a pet’s developmental years can shape their lifelong health. Meanwhile, 41 per cent of owners confessed to offering treats when pets seem sad or lonely, and three in four admitted to feeding pets human food 31 per cent of whom believe it does no harm.
Royal Canin’s survey pinpointed the top culprits of pet obesity as:
1 Overfeeding (39 per cent)
2 Lack of exercise (36 per cent)
3 Poor quality food (17 per cent)
4 Human food indulgence (14 per cent)
5 Lack of awareness around weight issues (11 per cent)
To counter this, Royal Canin has launched the #ScalingTheConversation campaign, a digital-first push targeting Gen Z pet parents via Instagram, Youtube, and creator-led content. The initiative focuses on empowering veterinary professionals to start more effective conversations with pet owners about nutrition and healthy weight management.
This year’s symposium drew over 550 participants from 70 countries, all united by the belief that weighty conversations lead to lighter, happier pets.
So, whether it’s fewer treats, smarter portions or more walks, one thing is clear when it comes to pet health, knowledge really is power, and the time to talk is now.
Brands
Raj Cooling Systems launches Agreyas appliances brand
Emraan Hashmi named brand ambassador for consumer appliance push.
MUMBAI: A company known for cooling solutions is now heating up its ambitions in the home appliances market. Raj Cooling Systems Pvt. Ltd. has launched a new consumer appliances brand, Agreyas, marking its entry into India’s rapidly expanding home appliances sector valued at more than Rs 1.5 lakh crore. The move represents a strategic diversification for the company, which has traditionally focused on cooling solutions for residential, commercial and industrial applications. Through Agreyas, the firm plans to tap into growing consumer demand for energy efficient and technology driven household appliances.
To build brand visibility, Agreyas has appointed Emraan Hashmi as its brand ambassador. The campaign has been developed under the banner of Zoommantra Productions, with actor and filmmaker Rohit Roy contributing to the creative direction.
The brand’s initial portfolio will include mid premium air conditioners, washing machines, geysers and other white goods designed to cater to modern Indian households seeking efficient and reliable appliances.
Raj Cooling Systems, founder and chairman Kalpesh Ramoliya said the launch aligns with the company’s broader expansion plans.
“The launch of Agreyas is in line with our vision to build a strong presence in India’s consumer electronics and home appliances market. The brand has been developed as a standalone identity to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers,” he said.
Hashmi said the collaboration comes at a time when Indian buyers are increasingly looking for innovative and functional home solutions.
“I’m looking forward to working with Agreyas at a time when consumers are seeking more innovative and efficient home products. The brand reflects changing consumer behaviour around functionality, innovation and ease of use,” he said.
Raj Cooling Systems plans to invest around 10 million dollars in developing the brand, with an additional 5 million dollars earmarked over the next three to five years for product development and distribution expansion.
Agreyas will follow a multi channel distribution approach, selling through online platforms, retail outlets and dealer networks aimed at both urban and semi urban markets across India.
With the launch, the company is positioning Agreyas as a standalone consumer facing brand while continuing to leverage its existing manufacturing, engineering and research capabilities built through its core cooling solutions business.
