“Chunky was brought to us after his owners were finding it difficult to help him lose weight and could no longer look after him," he explained.

"He is at significant risk of health problems such as diabetes and arthritis, so it is essential that we help him to lose weight, though it needs to be a gradual process as it is dangerous for a cat to shed weight too quickly.

“He has been making good progress and currently weighs 10kg. We are now looking to find him a home in the Cornwall area where his new owners will help Chunky towards his ideal target weight, with the centre on hand to provide advice.

“He’ll make a lovely pet as he is chatty and he loves rolling around when there’s a grooming or a fuss to be had. He’d be best suited to a home without very young children where he can be the only pet.”

Around a quarter of cat owners regard their pets to be overweight, according to a Cats Protection survey.

Fat cat Chunky needs a loving home