December 1, 2022

We love our pets and want what is best for them. Knowing how to keep them happy and healthy is our biggest job as pet owners. Dogs and cats have many of the same health problems as humans, but they do not show symptoms in the same ways we do. It is up to us to pay attention, learn the symptoms, and help them get the best treatments. Here are three of
the biggest health risks.

Diet: It is important to limit rich, greasy treats and table food. Instead, give your pet treats specifically made for them. A few treats once or twice a day are fine, but they should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s diet. If you want to feed your pet human food, opt for snacks like baby carrots and green beans for dogs or a tiny taste of tuna fish packed in water for cats. These smart choices limit the number of calories your pet consumes.

Feeding your dog or cat a poor-quality diet and supplementing it with lots of treats and table food can lead to a multitude of problems. These include long-standing metabolic disease, chronic illnesses, and obesity, which can lead to a shorter life span. As your pet ages, feed them a healthy grain-free diet to keep their weight down.

Aging: Pets do not age at the same rate as humans. How fast they age varies depending on the size of the breed. As pets age, it is important to ensure that they have the right vitamins. Pet vitamins help maintain vision, joints, and mood. Plenty of exercise and socialization can also help pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Fleas and ticks: Fleas and ticks can easily latch onto dogs and cats and can spread serious illnesses, including Lyme disease. To avoid infestations, use an oral or on-the-spot flea and tick product all year long to break the flea life cycle and limit bloodsucking ticks. Consult your veterinarian to select the best products to protect your pets from fleas and ticks.