Five Life-Lengthening Pet Care Health Tips

Every owner wants their precious pet to enjoy a life that is as long, healthy and happy as possible. Nevertheless, animals do have a shorter lifespan than we do, and this means that it is important to make sure that we do everything we can to enhance and prolong their lives. Here are five life-lengthening pet care health tips that can maximize the time that you have with your beloved animal. 

1. Make sure your pet gets the right nutrition

There are lots of different types of pet foods out there, so it is easy to see why choosing the right one can be a little overwhelming. Nevertheless, ensuring that your pet has the right balance of nutrients in their food is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and able to live a long life. Choose a high-quality diet that can strengthen your pet’s immune system, boost their body function and keep them strong. If you aren’t sure which is right for your pet, or if your pet has an ongoing health issue, seek the advice of your vet before switching your pet’s food. 

2. Manage your pet’s weight

Obesity is the leading cause of health problems in pets as well as humans, and many of these issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease, are life-limiting in animals too. Research has shown that being overweight or obese can potentially shorten the lifespan of a cat or dog by as much as two years. By keeping your pet at a healthy weight, you will help them to remain active and could prolong their life. 

3. Stay on top of your pet’s dental health

Many owners don’t give a great deal of thought to the dental health of their pets. However, dental problems and particularly periodontal disease can be disastrous for your pet’s health and wellbeing. This is because periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that, left untreated, can cause infection in the gums. The bacteria within the infection can also enter the bloodstream and pass around your pet’s body, reaching their heart, lungs, liver and more, and putting your furbaby at greater risk of diseases including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, kidney and liver diseases, and even cancer. Preventative dental care carried out at home and by your vet is recommended for pets of all ages. 

4. Keep your pet as safe as possible

Given the choice, most pets would roam freely so that they can explore the environment that they are in. Whilst this may be perfectly safe in your home and yard, allowing your pet to roam unsupervised could potentially put them at risk of an accident or injury. This includes being involved in road accidents, slips, trips, and falls, becoming lost, being exposed to poisons and potentially a contagious disease. Although it may not be possible to supervise your pet at all times, the more supervision you can provide, the safer your pet is likely to be. 

5. Visit your vet regularly

Your veterinary professional is your biggest support when it comes to the health and wellbeing of your pet. Visiting the vet shouldn’t only be for times when your pet is injured or sick. Instead, your vet can provide important preventative care that can stop your pet from becoming sick in the first place. For example, receiving their vaccinations on time will protect them from the many contagious diseases that could threaten the longevity of their life. 

If you would like more life-lengthening pet care health tips, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced and knowledgeable veterinary team who will be delighted to help you.