Half of UK adults own a pet, with 28% opting for a dog and 24% a cat, according to the veterinary charity PDSA. As pet ownership rises, ensuring the health and happiness of these animals becomes increasingly important. From feeding to fireworks, veterinarians share their expert advice on maintaining the well-being of our canine and feline companions.
Understanding Your Pet’s Needs
Rory Cowlam, a veterinarian at Pickles in Fulham, London, emphasizes the importance of research before introducing a dog or cat into your home. “I would 100% recommend reading some books and looking online,” he advises. “Make sure you are getting the information from a reputable source: speak to vets, trainers, friends who have had pets, and build your knowledge base that way.”
The source of your pet is equally crucial. Cowlam suggests, “The best thing to do is adopt from a charity. But if you’re going to a breeder, go on personal recommendations, or check for approved breeders – make sure to do your homework and at the first sign of something not quite right, move on.”
Feeding: A Balanced Approach
Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of pet health. “You don’t need the most premium thing on the market – just make sure you’re feeding them a good diet,” says Cowlam. Jo Lewis, a feline vet from Berkshire and author of What’s My Cat Thinking?, stresses the importance of checking pet food labels for “complete and balanced” nutrition. “If it says ‘complementary’, it has not got all the right vitamins and minerals,” she warns.
Overfeeding is a common pitfall. “There are studies to show that it can take two years off dogs’ lives if they are overweight,” notes vet Cat Henstridge from Dronfield near Sheffield. Obesity can lead to serious health issues such as diabetes and heart disease in pets.
“It is about making sure you know what your pet’s daily calories are, and then making sure you balance that out with meals and their treats.” – Cat Henstridge
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Exercise is vital for pets, but the type and amount vary between species. “Most dogs would benefit from an hour of exercise a day,” says Henstridge. “If a dog can get off the lead, then they can do their own thing: potter, sniff and gallop a bit.”
Cats, particularly indoor ones, require structured playtime. “If you can safely give cats access to outdoor space, then that is the goal,” says Lewis. Indoor cats benefit from cat trees and shelves that simulate outdoor activities.
Health and Safety Considerations
Dental health is often overlooked but is critical for pets. “It is very rare that I see an animal get to double figures without needing some sort of dentistry,” says Cowlam. Establishing a brushing routine early is essential.
Furthermore, knowing which foods are toxic to pets can prevent emergencies. Cowlam points out that “both dogs and cats should avoid grapes, raisins, and chocolate,” among other common foods.
Handling Anxiety and Stress
Fireworks and loud noises can be distressing for pets. “The main species that struggles is dogs,” says Henstridge. She suggests using drum’n’bass music to help mask the sound of fireworks due to its rhythmic and percussive nature.
Separation anxiety is another concern. “You need a degree of separation from your pet from day one,” advises Cowlam. Gradually increasing the time a pet is left alone can help them adjust.
Routine Care and Veterinary Visits
Regular checkups with a veterinarian are crucial for maintaining pet health. “Have a relationship with your local vets,” encourages Henstridge. Annual health checks and vaccinations are recommended for all pets.
Lewis highlights the importance of discussing preventative care with your vet, especially for outdoor cats that may encounter ticks, fleas, and worms.
“If you’ve got a generally healthy pet, once a year is fine for a health check.” – Rory Cowlam
Enrichment and Affection
Finally, love and attention are fundamental to a pet’s happiness. “You’ve got to think of pets as zoo animals,” says Lewis. Owners should strive to enrich their pets’ lives and provide attention on the pet’s terms.
In conclusion, ensuring the health and happiness of pets requires a combination of proper nutrition, regular exercise, routine veterinary care, and plenty of love and attention. By following these expert tips, pet owners can foster a nurturing environment for their furry friends.
