About The Pet Longevity Institute
We’re on a mission to help all pets live healthier for longer
We believe there’s room for improvement. Here’s why.
Today, pets evolved to be family. However, the traditional approach to pet healthcare tends to be more reactive – waiting for problems to emerge before addressing them.
But our loyal companions aren’t thriving. Most will be diagnosed with a chronic disease in their lifetime, like obesity, cancer, and arthritis. For the average person, dealing with a sick pet can be traumatic, both emotionally and financially.
Uncover today’s challenges with pet health and wellbeing
Today’s approach is largely reactive and doesn’t always consider the impact of prevention on health and wellbeing.
Discover the facts that fuel our mission.
Longevity Research
Pets could be living longer than they are today.
29
years
and
38
years
The oldest living dog and cat ever recorded1,2
11
years
and
13
years
The average lifespan of a dog and cat living today3
The Facts
A longitudinal study showed that a combination of high-quality nutrition and veterinary care has the potential to improve health and lifespan. In this study, 79% of Labradors exceeded their typical lifespan of 12 years and nearly 40% reached an extended lifespan of 15 years and older.4
Obesity Research
Obesity impacts long-term health, quality of life, and longevity.
#1
Most common nutritional disorder in companion pets1
55%
of dogs were found to be overweight or obese2
63%
of cats were found to be overweight or obese3
Why it matters
Obesity’s mechanical and metabolic effects can predispose pets to conditions such as diabetes mellitus type 2, osteoarthritis, urinary tract disease in cats, dermatological disease, oral cavity disease, and certain types of cancers.4
Diabetes Research
Diabetes in pets is on the rise.
+80%
Increase in cases of diabetes in dogs from 2006 to 20151
+18%
Increase in cases of diabetes in cats from 2006 to 20151
Why it matters
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common and prominent metabolic diseases for dogs and cats. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, such as hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis, or kidney and liver damage. Not to mention, managing it means lifelong treatment and regular vet visits.
Citations 1
Cancer Research
Cancer is the leading cause of death for companion dogs and cats.
1
in
4
dogs
Dogs experience cancer in their lifetime1
1
in
5
cats
Cats experience cancer in their lifetime2
Why it matters
While cancer is common amongst our dogs and cats, it’s rarely found in wildlife and other domestic animals. Given that companion pets live in the same household as us, our environment can offer insights into environmental risk factors such as exposures to tobacco or garden products.
Cost analysis
With health issues come high treatment costs.
Treatment costs for dogs of 8+ years1
$1,514
Average cost to treat cancer and tumours
$682
Average cost to treat arthritis
$601
Average cost to treat skin infections and allergies
Treatment costs for cats of 8+ years1
$1,589
Average cost to treat urinary tract disease
$854
Average cost to treat gastrointestinal disease
$631
Average cost to treat arthritis
The facts
As of 2024, the saving ratio in Australia hit a 17 year low – only 1.1% of total disposable income.2 This means that having a pet with a health issue could put immense financial and emotional stress on millions of Australians.
We’re
working on it
The Pet Longevity Institute is working to contribute meaningfully to the evidence base on how to help all pets reach their full lifespan and health span (the period of time pets are healthy, happy, and active).
Our approach
Consider the pet holistically
By looking at pet health holistically, we can better understand the many factors that can influence their wellbeing. This includes studying the interconnectivity between diet, exercise, stress, environmental factors, and chronic diseases.
Focus on proactive healthcare models
Traditionally, pet care has taken more of a reactive approach by addressing problems only after they emerge. We prioritise a proactive approach which encompasses early interventions, and lifestyle modifications to reduce or prevent the risk of disease.
Produce actionable science
Our team is dedicated to generating research that has short-term applications and provides insights and recommendations that pet owners and healthcare professionals can use to improve health outcomes today. Ultimately, we want to set new standards in the pet industry where prevention is a major part of care.
Use cutting-edge technologies and research methods
We employ rigorous process and robust methodologies to ensure reliability, validity, and relevance. Our team uses the latest technologies and collaborates with the best universities and scientists to assemble, analyse, and disseminate research findings with the scientific community and the public.
Meet our experts
Our mission is powered by some of the brightest minds in veterinary medicine and nutrition, and scientific research. Get to know our Scientific Advisory Board.
-
Dr. Matthew Muir
BSc Veterinary Science and Biology (Hons)
MD, All Natural Vet Care
Co-founder, Lyka
-
Dr. Simone Maher
BSc Veterinary Science (Hons)
Ex-Deputy Chair, University of Sydney Animal Ethics Committee
Chief Veterinary Officer, PetSure
-
Gabriel Guedes
MSc Management, Economics & Production Engineering
BSc Production Engineering
GAICD COO & CFO, Lyka
Our proud partners
We’re proud to partner with organisations that share our commitment to advancing pet health and longevity.
