Essential Pet Healthcare for Dogs & Cats

As a pet owner, you likely view your pet as a member of your family and therefore want to keep them healthy and happy. It is essential that you are aware of common health conditions that you should be concerned with to ensure that your cat or dog live a long and content life.

A common health issue for dogs is nutrition. At every stage in his or her life, your dog needs a balanced diet. It can be overwhelming when you see the huge variety of foods that are available for your dog, so, it is necessary that you can read the labels on the food. Make sure that the label indicates an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement, which ensures that the food provides proper nutrition. Also, purchase food that is appropriate for your dog's stage in life (puppy, adult, or senior). The AAFCO statement should indicate what life stage the food is best suited for.

Arthritis is a serious condition that can develop in dogs that should be watched for. It is incurable, but proper care and treatment can make your dog's life much less painful. Physical therapy and monitoring your dog's weight is a good place to start, as well as a conversation with your vet.

Urinary tract disease is a common health problem that develops in cats as they age, and watching for symptoms is a must for cat owners. Urinary tract disease typically develops in felines that are four years of age or older, and symptoms can include an inability to pass urine, crying when trying to urinate, avoiding the litter box, constant licking of their urinary opening, strong odor, and urinating outside of the litter box. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you suspect that your cat is developing urinary tract disease, especially if they are crying out in pain or straining to urinate. Antibiotics are typically prescribed, and dietary changes are often recommended.

As cats age, sometimes behavior problems can develop, due to a decline in cognitive function. Memory is commonly affected, such as remembering where the litter box or food bowls are. It can also affect their mood, activity level, and sleep cycles. Asking your vet to diagnose the cause of this behavior is the place to start.

With preventative care, your pet can share many joyful years with you. Monitoring your companion's behavior is a must when taking care of their health.