If your pet ever takes an unexpected walkabout, you’ll be glad you got them an identification tag or microchip. Identification tags are inexpensive and can be found at most pet stores – and they just might be the key to getting your pet back home safe and sound. A microchip is a more permanent form of identification and once it’s in your pet, it can’t be removed or fall off. It’s the best way to ensure you and your pet are reunited in the event your pet is found far from home.
Watch the treats
The obesity crisis in America has reached our pets as well, with many dogs and cats becoming overweight, according to Dr. Dana Varble, Chief Veterinary Officer of the North American Veterinary Community. Varble advises pet owners to be mindful of the amount of food they give to their pets and to consider portioning out smaller amounts at set times throughout the day instead of providing large meals all at once. This can help pets to shed excess weight and avoid health problems associated with obesity. It is important to listen to our pets’ needs and ensure that they are receiving proper nutrition and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Bring on the zoomies
Exercise is beneficial for both humans and their pets, according to Dr. Dana Varble. For dogs, a minimum of two walks a day or a playful game of fetch can provide the necessary physical activity. It’s important to not only allow dogs to get some fresh air, but also to stimulate their minds and tire them out by exposing them to the various smells in the neighborhood. As for cats, while some owners may choose to take them for a walk on a leash, others can provide interactive toys for their feline to chase and play with. It’s essential to remember that cats are natural predators and can benefit from activities that mimic their hunting instincts. Overall, it’s important to ensure that both you and your pet get the necessary exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Interactive toys for your feline friend don’t have to be expensive. Simple household items such as a toilet paper roll, a paper bag, or a ball of foil can provide plenty of entertainment for your cat. You can also create a DIY toy by tying feathers to the end of a stick and swinging it through the air for your cat to pounce on. Even an empty box can be a source of entertainment for your cat, and who knows, you might find them sitting in it just like in all those memes! It’s important to remember that even larger cats such as lions and tigers are known to enjoy playing with boxes. So don’t be afraid to get creative and have some fun with your feline companion.
Mind games
In addition to physical exercise, both dogs and cats can benefit from mental stimulation as well. Food puzzles are a great way to engage your pet’s mind and provide them with a sense of accomplishment. You can purchase these types of toys online or even make your own at home. For example, you can cut circles in the top of a shoebox and put treats inside for your cat to fish out, or roll treats up in a towel for your dog to unravel. You can also create a rolling treat dispenser by cutting small holes in a toilet paper roll or plastic bottle, filling it with treats, and sealing the ends. There are plenty of options for DIY food puzzles that can keep your pet’s mind active and engaged.
Focus on grooming
Just like humans, pets also benefit from regular grooming. Brushing their coat can stimulate blood flow to the skin, distribute natural oils, and keep their hair looking healthy and shiny. It’s a good idea to brush your pet’s teeth as well, as periodontal disease, which is inflammation of the gums and supporting bone, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in dogs. This can also put strain on the kidneys and liver as they filter bacteria from the mouth that is circulating in the blood. By establishing a good oral care routine that includes brushing teeth and regular dental evaluations with a veterinarian, you can help prevent these serious health consequences. It’s important to start grooming your pet at a young age to get them used to the process, but with patience, you can also introduce grooming to adult pets.