9 Factors That Can Compromise Your Pet’s Health 

If you have a pet, you already know how much love and joy it can bring into your life.  A pet’s loyalty is unparalleled; there’s nothing like coming home to a furry companion who considers you its whole world. Of course, being a pet owner involves effort and commitment. They must be fed, cleaned, walked, and cared for to be happy and healthy. Moreover, a veterinarian can test your animal for various avoidable health conditions and treat them before they become more serious. However, certain factors can undermine their health. Here are a few you should consider and the necessary steps to prevent or address them. 

• Obesity 

Obesity is the most frequent health concern for 0% of pets. They are more prone to major health problems like arthritis, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Regular vet visits will allow for routine weight evaluation of your pet, so keep this in mind. This way, the veterinary doctor can identify and treat any increase in their weight. They will also review any particular nutritional modifications required to get your pet back in shape. They may advise you to feed them protein-dense food such as chicken, eggs, and lamb. But can dogs eat lamb? Yes, absolutely; it is a safe and highly nutritious meat that your furry friend will enjoy. While at it, ensure they are properly hydrated throughout the day. 

• Tick-borne parasites and diseases

Tick-born diseases and parasites, such as heartworm, can have major health consequences on your pet, especially dogs. These health conditions are uncommon in certain parts of the world, but animals rescued from other countries where these health issues are a serious concern are at risk. If you have recently traveled with your pet, your veterinarian will prescribe testing to check that they do not have heartworm, Lyme disease, anaplasma, or life-threatening illnesses. You can protect your pet against these parasites, so feel free to consider this. All that is required is a monthly dose of chewable tablet or topical lotion. Your veterinarian can provide a prescription depending on your pet’s age, breed, and size, giving you peace of mind for years. 

• Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation and swelling of joints in your pet’s body’s critical stress areas. Osteoarthritis is the most frequent kind of arthritis often observed in older animals. This condition worsens with time, resulting in extreme discomfort and immobility. Although it is not entirely avoidable, there are numerous things you can do to help your pet avoid this painful and debilitating ailment.  If your veterinarian feels that they are at the peril of arthritis, they can provide numerous suggestions on improving the prognosis. The first phase is generally weight loss, made possible by a combination of appropriate activity and a specialized diet. Your veterinarian will advise you on joint supplements to improve your pet’s health. 

• Pollen

Allergies in dogs and cats are most common in the spring and summer, but they can become a year-round issue over time. Itching is the most common sign of this condition, so look out for them. It’s also worth noting that hair loss, skin and ear infections, and various lesions can result from scratching, gnawing, and rubbing. Of course, various conditions can cause itching in pets, so it is important to see a veterinarian before beginning therapy. Once a pollen allergy has been identified, keeping windows closed(if possible) and giving your pet regular washes can help decrease their exposure to the allergen. Medications and nutrients that strengthen the natural skin barrier, relieve itching, and calm immunological response may also be required.  Hyposensitization treatment, which involves repeated injections or oral drops, is another viable option.

• Puddles 

Puddles accumulate all kinds of pet safety hazards, such as oil, gas, pesticides, antifreeze, and herbicides. They can also serve as a breeding ground for germs that cause leptospirosis, resulting in kidney and liver failure. Pets get this disease by ingesting contaminated water or from the bacteria entering the body through skin breaches. Prevent your pet from drinking from puddles, and if you suspect your pet has done so, keep an eye out for any disease indications. Pets who have waded through possibly polluted puddles should take a clean bath. 

• Foxtails 

Foxtails (also known as grass awns) are bristly seeds found on certain grasses. They can become lodged in your animal’s eyes, ears, nose, or coat. However, they don’t end there; they can even enter the epidermis and spread throughout the pet’s body. Pets who spend much time navigating through thick grass are the most vulnerable to foxtail issues. The symptoms vary depending on where the foxtail has been lodged, but you should look out for red and runny eyes, excessive sneezing, and skin lesions that may not heal properly. A veterinarian will be needed to detect and remove the foxtail and treat the tissue damage and infection caused by it. To avoid foxtail exposure, keep your pets on a short leash. Vests and head coverings are also available for animals who labor in tall grass. Examine your pet’s body for foxtail and remove any that you discover before they cause harm. 

• Exposure to lead-based paint

Pets in homes constructed before 1978 are most likely to be exposed to lead-based paint. Lead test kits are widely accessible and may be used to test for this toxic substance in walls, old furniture, and toys. Lead poisoning symptoms in dogs and cats can range from lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea to neurologic issues such as seizures, tremors, blindness, and strange behavior. Remove your furry companion from the polluted area and contact your veterinarian if you fear your pet has been exposed to lead-based paint. Removal of paint particles from your pet’s coat and gastrointestinal system, administration of drugs that bind to lead and remove it from the body, and administration of medications to ease any symptoms are all possible treatments.  

• Black molds

The phrase “black mold” is frequently used to denote a category of microorganisms that can have major health consequences. Toxins produced by Cladosporium, Penicillium, Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Stachybotrys can cause pets to sneeze, cough, and other respiratory issues. They can also cause neurologic issues and, in rare cases, death. Black mold thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, so keep this in mind. Mold must be eradicated if found in or near your house. This harmful substance may be cleaned from small areas with a mild bleach solution. However,  a professional should handle bigger issues of mold infestation. As a tip, keep your pets away from those places while being cleaned. You should also make an appointment with your veterinarian if your pet exhibits any indication of mold exposure. 

• Dental illness

Dental care is a little-known yet critical aspect of pet care. By the age of three, pets exhibit indications of dental illness, which can progress to more serious issues such as heart, lung, and kidney disease. Dental disease is both preventable and treatable. Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly and providing dental chews daily are two things you can do at home to help maintain their teeth. During your pet’s yearly checkup, your veterinarian will analyze their oral health and may prescribe dental surgery. Dental procedures such as ultrasonic cleaning, polishing, fluoride therapy, and dental X-rays are performed under general anesthesia for your pet’s comfort and safety, so you can rest assured that your furry friend will not be harmed.  

Your pet’s health is instrumental to their longevity. Hopefully, you will watch out for and prevent these things from undermining their wellbeing.