Healthcare – routine measures

We are all familiar with the phrase “A healthy pet is a happy pet” – but there is probably also something to be said for keeping your pet happy in order to maintain its health. If you know your pet you will probably quickly recognize the signs that suggest it is not well.

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A healthy animal will have bright eyes, clean ears, eyes and nose and be interested in what is going on around it. The amount of food an animal eats varies a lot between individuals. If your pet’s weight remains constant, then they are eating the right amount of food. You should be concerned if your pet’s appetite or water consumption suddenly changes, or your pet suddenly starts to gain or lose weight.

When in good condition a pet’s coat should be shiny, soft and free of parasites. Animals skin ages (just like in people) and may become less elastic and more dry in an older pet.

To keep your pet in good condition it must be fed a healthy diet and allowed regular exercise. Mental stimulation in the form of an interesting environment and opportunities to play are also important. A regular walk is good for dogs because it provides exercise as well as mental stimulation. Many cats are allowed to range outdoors and so entertain themselves if you do not let your cat out consider whether the home environment offers it enough stimulation and opportunities to play.

Coat condition can be affected by diet. Fish oils or evening primrose oil capsules may help improve a dry coat. Groom your pet every day with a soft brush.

Regular exercise is important to keep all animals healthy. Most cats are good at regulating their exercise and match their food intake to their energy needs; dogs are less good at this. Excitable dogs may continue to exercise until they collapse if they are not well, and older dogs put on weight as their appetite remains unchanged despite a reduced energy requirement.

If your pet is showing signs of stiffness when they get up from rest they may be getting arthritis. If so the exercise program should be altered accordingly. Regular short walks will allow your pet to maintain mobility better if they are arthritic. If your pet is overweight then a diet may help improve its condition and allow it to exercise better.

A healthy diet is a balanced diet containing all the nutrients your pet requires. Your veterinary team will be able to advise you as to the best diet for your individual pet. Dietary requirements change with age and may also be affected if your pet is suffering from some diseases. As pets get older they may lose muscle mass and gain weight more easily. Overweight animals have a higher risk of diseases such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Check your pets weight every 6 months to make sure they are not overweight and prevent excessive weight gain by cutting back on calories if your pets weight increases.

There are a number of measures that can help prevent your pet developing diseases. You should discuss these options with your veterinarian to work out the best plan for your pet.

Deworming
All pets have worms at some stage in their life and many will be re-infected unless they are given regular, worming treatment. Except in rare cases, worms are unlikely to cause serious harm. Getting rid of worms is relatively simple and inexpensive so regular treatment is strongly recommended, particularly as some types of worm can be passed onto humans. Your vet will advise you as to the best deworming protocol for your individual pet. Some worms are transmitted by fleas so flea control is important too.

Flea control
Fleas are the most common parasite in dogs and cats – almost every pet is likely to be infected at some stage in its life. However, modern flea control products mean that it is possible to prevent fleas from becoming a problem in your household. Working closely with your veterinarian, who will give you advice on how to use these products effectively, you will be able to stop fleas from making a meal of your pet and you!

Neutering
It is a sad truth that the number of kittens born every year is far greater than the number of good homes that can be found for them. As a result, thousands of healthy animals are euthanased, and many unwanted animals are left to fend for themselves or spend long periods in rescue centers. Having your pet neutered will not only help to reduce these numbers, it can also help to reduce your pets risk of certain diseases. Ask your vet for further information on the pros and cons of neutering. 

Vaccinations
There are a number of highly infectious and potentially fatal diseases that can affect our pets. Sadly, affected animals may not always recover from these conditions, even with modern veterinary care. However, for many of these conditions there is a simple protection in the form of vaccination. Ensuring that your pet completes an initial course of vaccinations and then receives regular boosters is important if you want them to stay fit and healthy.

Dental care
Dental disease is very common in cats. Surveys show that after the age of three years, about seven out of ten cats have some kind of tooth disorder. If left unattended these may cause irreversible damage to the animal’s teeth, gums and jaw bones. Dental disease can be prevented by stopping the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Ask your veterinary team to discuss dental care, diets and tooth brushing with you.

A fever (increase in body temperature) is often one of the first signs of illness. If your pet has a fever they are likely to be quieter than normal and probably will be off their food. If you check your pet’s temperature and find it is raised, then contact your veterinarian for advice.

Any changes in your pet’s behavior, altered appetite or water consumption, or the presence of signs such as coughing or diarrhea should alert you to the fact that there may be a problem with your pet. If you are not sure what to do, then always call your veterinary practice for advice.

Most owners can tell if their pet is limping or crying with pain, but it can be harder to see if your pet is suffering from a long-term discomfort such as arthritis. Cats generally show a change in behavior or temperament when they’re uncomfortable. A normally happy and affectionate pet may become grumpy and avoid human contact, preferring to sit or lie quietly by itself. If the animal can reach the painful area, they may lick, scratch, or bite at it. Cats are really good at hiding discomfort, so if you suspect that they may be uncomfortable, it is always best to contact your veterinary team for advice.