If you’ve ever tried getting a nervous cat or squirmy little dog into a carrier before a vet visit, you know—it’s not always graceful. Between the panicked flailing, the sudden disappearance under the bed, and the “Nope, not today” energy they bring, the right carrier can make a huge difference in how smooth (or not) the whole experience is. That’s why so many pet owners wonder: should I go with a soft-sided carrier or a hard plastic one?
Soft-sided carriers are lightweight, easy to carry, and a lot more flexible—which makes squeezing them into car seats, vet office corners, or under waiting room chairs way easier. Many of them unzip on multiple sides or have top-loading options, which is a total win when you’re trying to gently ease in a less-than-willing pet. Plus, they’re often more comfortable inside, with soft padding and breathable mesh windows that make the ride a little less stressful for your pet.
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Hard-sided carriers, on the other hand, are all about sturdiness. They hold their shape no matter what and offer a little more protection if your pet’s a thrasher or tends to panic in transit. They’re also easier to clean—one quick wipe-down and you’re good to go, which is handy if your pet has an accident or gets carsick. Some have secure latches instead of zippers, which can give extra peace of mind if you’ve got an escape artist.
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So which one’s better? If your pet is relatively calm and you value convenience and comfort (especially if you’re the one lugging it around), a soft-sided carrier is probably the way to go. But if your dog or cat tends to freak out, tries to claw or chew their way out, or just needs a little more containment, a hard-sided carrier might be the safer bet.
At the end of the day, it really depends on your pet’s temperament—and how much stress you’re both willing to deal with during vet days. Either way, the right carrier makes all the difference in turning the pre-vet scramble into a smoother, less dramatic process. 🐾
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Owning a pet is a big responsibility, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Your cute and cuddly kitten is going to grow up into a cat that may prefer to spend time outdoors (rather than beside you on the couch). Your little puppy may become over fifty pounds, so it isn’t going to be cute when he jumps on you at that size. In fact, he could seriously hurt you!
There are many decisions that you may be facing as a new pet owner. You will need to decide which vaccines you want your new pet to have. You may also be trying to determine if you want to get your pet spayed or neutered.
If you are one of those owners who aren’t sure about what to do, here are some reasons why you may want to think about getting your pet spayed or neutered.
Responsible
Spaying and neutering your pet is the responsible thing to do. It will stop adding to the unwanted animal population.
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That being said, you should talk to your veterinarian to determine the best time to spay or neuter your pet. Many veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering cats of either sex around six months of age.
However, with dogs, more veterinarians are waiting until they are a little older. This is even more true with bigger breeds. Veterinarians agree that you should wait until your large breed male dog is over a year old (unless he starts exhibiting destructive behaviors). For females, some recommend spaying prior to heat, while others recommend letting them go through at least one heat cycle.
Keeps your pet home
The simple truth is that male animals are driven to find females that are in heat. If your male cat or dog gets out, he will likely roam until he finds what he is looking for. In fact, this is one of the reasons why males get lost. They are too busy chasing a female that they get lost and can’t find their way back to their owners.
And safe
Male dogs and cats are more likely to get hit by cars because they are too busy focusing on the scent of a female in heat.
Healthier
Spaying and neutering early can prevent many diseases. Neutering will prevent testicular cancer and prostate diseases. Spaying early will prevent breast tumors. With every heat cycle that a female has, she is more likely to get mammary cancer.
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Unspayed females can also get a pyometra. This nasty disease, which is an infected uterus, can kill your dog, if left untreated. The only way to fix the problem is to spay your dog. However, by this point, your dog is sick, so the surgery is riskier than a routine spay. This is just one more reason why you need to consider spaying your dog before anything happens!
Less behavioral problems
Spaying and neutering pets can help reduce certain unwanted behaviors. This may include males who like to mark their territory. Males are also less likely to hump your leg. Neutering early can also help you avoid any aggressive behaviors.
Though you may be struggling with the decision on whether you should spay or neuter your dog, you really should consider it, unless you decide to breed your pet. It is the responsible thing to do. It also helps to keep your pets home. They will be less likely to roam the neighborhood, looking for a mate.
It is also healthier. You won’t have to worry about testicular cancer or prostate problems in your male dog. If you have a female, you won’t have to worry about pyometras and spaying her when she isn’t feeling well! It can also help prevent behavior problems before they start.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
When you hear the word intestinal parasites or even worms, you may be feeling a bit squeamish. However, it is important to know and understand them a little more, especially if you have pets (and children). Your dog or cat can get worms, which may be passed onto you and your family.
So, how can my pet get intestinal parasites?
Getting intestinal parasites is easier than you think. Your dog or cat needs to come into contact with these parasites, and then they will have them. They can do this in several ways, including:
Swallowing fleas while they are grooming themselves.
Ingesting water or soil that has been contaminated with the worms (or even feces that had the worms in it).
Eating prey that has intestinal parasites.
Swallowing the eggs of these parasites that were brought into the home by you and your other pets.
What are some signs that your dog or cat may be exhibiting if he or she has intestinal parasites?
Vomiting and diarrhea, with or without blood
Blood loss
Malnutrition
Weight loss
And even death!
What can you do to prevent intestinal parasites?
So, what can you do to keep your pets and family safe? Here are some things that you should do on a regular basis.
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You should deworm all new puppies and kittens.
Puppies and kittens are born with worms, so it is important to make sure that you deworm them multiple times when they are young.
You should do the same with any new pets that you get.
If you don’t know the history of your new pet, you should deworm him or her a few times to make sure that your pet is worm free.
It also helps to deworm your pets regularly.
Any dogs that spend time outside should be dewormed regularly. Cats who hunt are also at risk, so you should be deworming them multiple times a year.
You also need to practice good hygiene.
You should always wash your hands after playing with your animals, as well as whenever you come inside.
If you pick up after your dog when he or she goes to the bathroom, even if there are worms, it is less likely to transfer into the ground where your dog or cat could get reinfected.
You shouldn’t allow them to play where your dogs and cats go to the bathroom. If you have a lot of wildlife around, keep your children away from areas where they spend a lot of time.
Whether you have cats or not, you should always cover up your children’s sandboxes.
These are often seen as litter boxes for any cat. By covering them up, they are less likely to be touching areas where any cats had defecated.
You should also make sure that everyone wears shoes.
Though you may love to walk around barefoot, you should always wear shoes outside. You never know what ground could be contaminated with worms.
That being said, you should also avoid sitting and lying on the ground.
You should always bring a blanket or chair to sit in to avoid sitting directly on the contaminated soil.
It is also important that you don’t drink water from streams or other contaminated water sources.
You should carry bottled water with you, wherever you go so that you don’t have to even think about drinking water that could carry worms in it.
If you have pets, you need to keep them on flea and tick prevention all year round.
Fleas are known to carry tapeworms, so the best way to avoid that is by treating your pets all year round.
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Let’s face it. Intestinal parasites and worms are gross. For this reason, you should always deworm any new puppies and kittens. You also should deworm any new to you pets. If your cat is a hunter, you should deworm them routinely, so that your family is safe.
You also need to think about what you and your family do. You shouldn’t let your children play in the dirt where infected feces may be. Cover up the sandbox since it looks like a giant litter box to cats. You also need to make sure that everyone washes their hands regularly and wears shoes.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be passed from animals to people (and back and forth). The most common one is Rabies, though we don’t see that disease much anymore, which is a good thing.
However, many other diseases can be passed from one to another. Some that you need to know about include:
Rabies.
This is a life-threatening disease that can be passed from many different animals to people. Unfortunately, most people who get rabies and don’t get treated right away end up dying. For this reason, it is important to keep your pets vaccinated for this preventable disease. In many states, it is legally required.
Leptospirosis.
Though this disease isn’t prevalent, it has become more common over the past few years. Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium and is passed through the urine of infected animals. It is passed by wildlife and through both running and standing water, where infected wildlife pass by. It can cause liver and kidney failure in all animals and humans.
Intestinal parasites.
Dogs and cats can pass any worms onto a human, especially those who handle them regularly. They can pass roundworms, hookworms, and even tapeworms through their stools. It is more common in children, older people, and those who are immunodeficient.
Giardia infection.
Like intestinal parasites, Giardia is passed through feces. It is an organism that comes from infected water. It can also live in the soil and feces after ingestion. Not only that, but it causes digestive problems, including diarrhea.
Lyme disease.
Lyme disease can be quite severe in both humans and dogs. A tick bite passes it and can affect someone for years. Some of the most common signs include fever, pain, and joint inflammation. If left untreated, it can start to affect vital organs like your kidneys and heart.
Scabies and other mites.
Our dogs and cats who are outside can pick up scabies and other mites, and then pass them on to the humans who want to cuddle up with them. This can be pretty itchy and irritating to the skin of anyone who comes in contact with the mites.
Because you aren’t going to want to worry about your children and your pets with these diseases, you have to do a few things to protect everyone.
Clean up your dog’s stool in the yard.
Not only is it disgusting to walk through a yard full of poop, but it can also be unhealthy. The longer that the stools stay in the yard, the more likely it is that the intestinal parasites can move into the ground and continue to infect your pets repeatedly.
Please wash your hands after handling your animals and their stools.
Good hygiene is essential to keep everyone as healthy as possible. So, make sure that you wash your hands often when you are handling your pets. You also need to wash your hands after you clean out the yard and the litter pan
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Wear gloves when working outside in the dirt.
Since the soil can be infected by stool, you shouldn’t garden or work in the dirt without gloves. Even when wearing them, you should wash your hands after you are finished. You could pick something up from a stray animal that wanders through your yard.
Vaccinate your pet.
You should vaccinate your dog and cat to protect them. However, if he or she has a Leptospirosis and a Rabies vaccine, you are less likely to get the disease.
You also want to keep them on preventatives.
Your dogs and cats should be on flea and tick protection to help keep fleas and ticks out of your home (and on you). These preventatives can also help with mites. You should also deworm your pets routinely to ensure that they don’t get any intestinal parasites that they could pass on to you.
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Though zoonotic diseases can be scary, they don’t have to be. You can easily keep your pet (and your family) safe, just with a few easy things. You should always wash your hands and wear gloves when handling dirt and stool. Likewise, you should also make sure that your dogs and cats are vaccinated against the diseases that can easily be prevented.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve ever leaned in for a doggy kiss only to be hit with a wave of truly awful breath, you’re not alone. Dog breath is one of those small-but-annoying problems that nearly every pet parent deals with at some point. Even if your dog’s mouth is healthy, plaque and tartar buildup can cause seriously stinky breath over time.
And while we all know that we should be brushing our dogs’ teeth every day, hardly anyone is doing that. Most of us either forget or don’t make it a habit. Others can’t, because their dog is simply too wiggly. So, what can you do if you want fresher breath without the daily toothbrush battle?
This easy-to-use dental supplement is made from natural seaweed and works from the inside out. You simply sprinkle it onto your dog’s food once a day—and that’s it. No chasing your dog around with a toothbrush, no flavored gels, and no struggling with finger brushes. It helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time and tackles bad breath right at the source.
What’s especially nice is that Proden PlaqueOff doesn’t just mask odors—it supports better dental health overall. As your dog eats, the seaweed ingredients help soften plaque so it’s easier to break down naturally through chewing or regular eating. Most dogs don’t even notice it’s there, so you can feel good knowing you’re giving them something that’s both helpful and stress-free.
Of course, every dog is different, and results can take a few weeks to kick in. But plenty of pet parents (and their noses!) swear by it as a gentle, effective way to keep dog breath in check—especially when brushing just isn’t happening.
So if you’re dodging kisses or gagging during cuddle time, it might be time to give Proden PlaqueOff a try. Your dog gets healthier teeth and gums—and you get back to enjoying close-up snuggles without holding your breath.
We have seen many patients in our practice who come in with less tartar after starting this food additive. It really helps!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Just like a doctor’s visit can be stressful for you, your pets may also feel the same anxiety when they go to the veterinarian’s office. Then, if they have a bad visit, it only gets worse. Every visit gets harder and harder for your pet.
For that reason, you need to make sure that your pet’s veterinary visits go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help.
Ensure that you properly socialize any new puppies you acquire.
When you first get a new puppy (and they are properly vaccinated), you need to introduce them to new places. You will want to take them to different places so that they don’t fear going anywhere. Instead, each new place should be a fun place to explore!
So, get them used to going in the car to visit the pet store, friends’ and family’s homes, and even the veterinarian’s office. Most veterinarians will allow you to bring your new puppy in to get them used to coming in. They may even take time out of their day to play with your puppy and give him or her treats, just to make sure that they know it is a safe place.
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During this time, ensure that your pet is accustomed to being handled.
Most dogs and cats don’t enjoy getting touched, so you need to handle your new puppy and kitten regularly. Play with his or her feet. Look into the ears. Feel their belly, like they would have done at the veterinarian’s office. Look inside your pet’s mouth. All of this will make the examination go more smoothly.
You may even want to practice restraint. This is often the worst part of the visit, even over toenail trims and ear cleanings. Most dogs and cats don’t want to be held still. So, next time you take your dog or cat to the veterinarian, observe how they are held, so you can get your dog or cat used to it at home.
Find the right veterinarian.
Many veterinarians want your puppies and kittens to have a good experience. They want their patients to enjoy their visits, and they work hard to make sure that it happens. They may have a treat jar (or even a treat drawer) where they can pull out tasty snacks to make sure that your pet has a good experience.
Know the signs of stress.
It is essential to recognize when your dog or cat appears to be stressed.
Here are some signs of stress that you should look for:
Shedding
Licking or biting skin
Drooling
Barking and whining (in dogs)
Hissing (in cats)
Big eyes
Trembling
Hiding or, if unable to hide, they might tuck their body in order to make it as small as possible
Any habit that isn’t normal for your pet
If the visit to the veterinarian’s office is too stressful, you may need to try again on another day (or consider using medication to make the experience more manageable).
If your dog or cat is excessively stressed, your veterinarian may recommend medication.
Though you may not want to do so, it might be in everyone’s best interest. A pill or two could make the visit go that much smoother for your pet, you, and the entire veterinary team.
The goal isn’t to completely sedate your pet, but you want to take the edge off so that they aren’t as stressed (and are easier to handle). If your veterinarian would rather man-handle your dog or cat, it might not be the right place for you! It could just make the entire thing worse.
Always use a well-fitting collar or harness when coming to the veterinarian’s office.
You also need to have a good leash. Not only will you be able to bring your dog into the office, but it will also keep them safe. If there are other animals in the waiting room, you will have control of your own dog.
Although you may think you need a flexible leash, it is a much better idea to get a sturdy one, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from.
Make sure that you bring your pet’s favorite treat along!
Though your veterinarian may offer treats, you may want to bring something that your dog or cat really enjoys. You may want to consider bringing cheese, chicken, or even hot dogs if that is what your dog loves to have.
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The best thing you can do for your new pet is to get them properly socialized. This means riding in the car and exploring new places. You may even want to visit the veterinarian’s office a few times before your appointment. It also helps to get him or her used to being handled and restrained. That helps the visit go that much smoother!
That being said, there are times when you may need to think about using sedatives. Though you may not want to use them, it can really help everyone. Your dog or cat will be less stressed. Your veterinarian may be able to complete the examination quickly, which means that your beloved pet will be back home sooner than expected! This is a win-win for everyone!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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It is also essential to understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
When you go to the veterinarian for vaccines, you may be asked about several vaccines. This can become confusing, and you may not be sure exactly what your dog needs. You don’t want to over-vaccinate your dog, but you also need to ensure that he or she receives the necessary vaccines.
Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your dog.
Your dog needs to have a Rabies vaccine.
This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.
The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all dogs (and cats) to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!
The Distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases, including distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.
Distemper is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It is spread through saliva, urine, and feces. It is often fatal.
Hepatitis is an infectious disease that can lead to severe liver damage. If left untreated, it can cause death. It is quite serious in puppies and older dogs and is spread through contact with infected urine.
Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral infection of the intestinal tract. It is spread through contact with the feces of another infected dog. It strikes quickly and can be deadly for puppies. This disease was rare until recently, when people stopped vaccinating their dogs as much as they used to.
Parainfluenza is a viral respiratory infection that may cause Kennel Cough. It is usually transmitted by contact with the nasal secretions of an infected dog. Puppies and older dogs are at a greater risk for parainfluenza.
Your dog’s distemper vaccine may also contain Leptospirosis. This is a bacterial disease that can cause kidney and liver problems. If left untreated, it can cause kidney failure. It is spread through infected urine. If a wild animal has leptospirosis, it can urinate near streams and other areas with standing water. If your dog drinks contaminated water, they may be at risk for the disease. Leptospirosis can also be transmitted to humans, making it even more important.
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The Bordetella vaccine is also known as the Kennel Cough vaccine.
It is used to prevent bacterial infections that cause kennel cough. If your dog has kennel cough, it may be caused by kennel cough alone, or it could be a combination of respiratory diseases.
If your dog is around other dogs, he or she should probably get the Bordetella vaccine. This may include taking your pet to the kennel or the groomer. You may also want to protect your dog if you take him or her to the dog park or allow your dog to spend time with a lot of other dogs.
The Lyme vaccine is helpful to protect your dog against this complex bacterial disease.
It can cause pain in the joints and lameness. Lyme disease is spread through the bites of infected deer ticks.
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When deciding which vaccinations your dog needs, consult with your veterinarian and technicians. He or she will be able to identify the risks your dog faces, allowing them to develop a suitable vaccination plan.
Whether you choose to vaccinate your dog or not, he or she needs to have a rabies vaccine. The distemper shot is also important to keep your dog as healthy as possible. If he or she is around other dogs, you may want to get the Bordetella vaccine. If you live in an area with a high tick population, it’s essential to protect your dog against Lyme disease.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Most people don’t want to take their cat to the veterinarian, yet it is a crucial way to keep their cat as healthy as possible. Not only will your veterinarian take a good look at your cat, but he or she will also make sure that your cat is fully protected with vaccines.
While you don’t want to over-vaccinate your cat, you also don’t want to have to worry about him or her getting sick. You may be unsure about which vaccines your cat really needs. You may not want to give any, since your cat doesn’t even go outside. This may not be very clear for many pet owners.
Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your cat.
Your cat needs to have a Rabies vaccine.
This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.
The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all cats to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!
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The distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases.
Its initials can help you remember all the different diseases that a distemper vaccine prevents. FVRCP stands for:
Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be fatal to kittens and older cats. It causes cats to sneeze and develop a fever. Many cats exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and eyes. Cats who have FVR often lose their appetite.
Feline calicivirus is a severe respiratory infection often associated with FVR. Cats will have nasal congestion and sneezing. Many cats also develop painful ulcers in their mouth, which can lead to drooling. These cats often get a fever and don’t feel very well.
Panleukopenia is a contagious disease that can be deadly for kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and depression.
You may want to consider vaccinating your cat against Feline Leukemia.
This virus interferes with your cat’s immune system, meaning that he or she won’t be able to fight infection as well as usual. This disease is spread through saliva, urine, and blood. Cats get it by sharing food bowls, grooming, and bites.
If your cat is an outdoor cat, you should consider getting the leukemia vaccine to keep them as safe as possible.
Another disease to consider with outside cats is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for this disease and no cure. Even worse, many cats that have FIV, also have feline leukemia.
Feline immunodeficiency virus is also transmitted through saliva. Biting, scratching, and fighting (which is common with outside cats) will spread this disease from cat to cat.
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For this reason, you should check every new cat (and kitten) that you get for Feline Leukemia and FIV. This is no longer a death sentence. Some of these cats can live healthy lives, as long as you take proper precautions. You will need to keep your cat inside and separate from all other cats. You won’t be able to let him or her outside, as you would help spread these diseases.
The best way to ensure your cat is fully vaccinated is to consult with your veterinarian. Let him or her know about your cat’s risk factors (including how many cats are in the home and whether he or she ever goes outside)! Then, you can decide together which vaccines your cat actually needs.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The simple truth is that most cats don’t drink as much water as they should. And as they age and develop an illness, they may need to consume even more water.
Many owners don’t ever see their cat drinking. In fact, when they do, a problem may already exist. Your cat may be drinking excessively and needs to see a veterinarian.
For this reason, ensureyour cat is drinking enough water. Here are some ways to encourage your cat to drink even more water.
Change their water every day.
Cats are more likely to drink clean water, so it is essential to change it daily, even if it appears untouched.
Have multiple bowls throughout the house.
The more opportunities that your cat has to drink, the more likely he or she will. So, find places throughout your home where you can place water bowls. That way, no matter where your cat is, fresh water is easily accessible.
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If your cat isn’t drinking out of his or her current water bowl, you may want to try others.
Many cats are finicky when it comes to their food and water bowls. You may need to try a few types before finding the one that they will use regularly.
In fact, you may want to try a water fountain.
Cats love drinking out of the sink and other places where water runs. For this reason, water fountains are often used to encourage them to drink more. Running water can bring cats to the fountain, and then once they are there, they are likely to drink.
Pet Cube offers a cat fountain to ensure that your cats stay as hydrated as possible. It purifies the water by removing bacteria, parasites, and other harmful pathogens, ensuring clean and safe hydration, just like you would want for yourself.
There are also plenty of options on Amazon and Chewy, if you would prefer to go that route.
Another effective way to ensure your cat is drinking enough is by switching to canned food.
The truth is that most cats don’t need to eat dry food at all. A canned diet is not only good for weight control, but it also helps them stay hydrated.
We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.
Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.
Even better, you may be able to add additional water to your cat’s food.
Some owners wet down the dry food in order to help hydrate their cats. If your cat only eats wet food, you can still add some water to it as a way to increase your cat’s fluid intake.
You could also give them juice from tuna or canned chicken to increase the amount of fluids that they drink.
Tuna and canned chicken have a high water content, which can be beneficial for those who aren’t drinking enough water daily.
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Unfortunately, most cats don’t drink enough water in a day. In fact, most pet parents who come into the veterinary clinic don’t see their cat drinking at all! For this reason, you should do everything possible to ensure your cat is getting enough water every day.
You can do this by refreshing their water every day. Cats are more likely to drink fresh water than water that has been sitting out for a few days! You should also have it easily accessible by placing multiple bowls throughout the house. A fountain may encourage your cat to drink!
If that isn’t working, you may want to switch to canned food instead of dry. You can also add water to both forms of food to help your cat get enough fluids every day.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
The truth is that many people assume their dogs are a healthy weight when they are truly a few pounds (or more) overweight. Most people think that dogs should look a certain way, and when they are a healthy weight, they look skinny. In fact, some owners get told that their dogs need to gain weight when their weight is really where it should be.
Because of that, you need to understand what is at risk if you don’t keep your dog at a healthy weight.
So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight dogs?
Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from the following:
Diabetes mellitus
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Pain in the joints, which can turn into arthritis as your dog ages
In fact, arthritis and joint deterioration can happen faster when your dog is overweight.
Urinary tract infections and bladder stones
Complications from surgery
So, how can you tell if your dog is overweight?
Here are some signs that your dog weighs more than he or she should.
His or her silhouette.
When your dog is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.
You can feel your dog’s ribs.
You are going to want to be able to feel the ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your dog needs to lose some weight.
Your dog may not be as active as normal.
Though your dog may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that he or she should have plenty of energy. Your dog should continue to want to take walks on a daily basis, as well as play ball in the yard.
Why is my dog gaining weight?
There are many reasons why your dog may be gaining weight. Some are due to factors that you can control, and others may be due to a condition that they are dealing with.
Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog may be gaining weight.
You are feeding too much.
As your dog ages, he or she won’t need as much food. You need to start to adjust their daily feeding depending on their stage of life. You may be surprised by how little food your dog needs to eat in a day, especially when your dog becomes an adult.
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Your dog isn’t getting enough exercise.
In order for your dog to stay in shape, you need to find ways to build exercise into his or her life. This may include walks in the park, playing ball in the backyard, and even going to the dog park.
It may be in your dog’s genetics.
Certain breeds are more prone to obesity, so if you own a dog that is more commonly overweight, you need to be even more careful with how much you are feeding your dog.
Some of the most common dogs that are overweight are Labs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, and much more.
Certain medications may cause your dog to gain weight.
The most common medication is Prednisone, though there are many different medications that can make it easy for your dog to pack on the pounds.
Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Disease will often cause weight gain, which is why you should have your dog checked out by a veterinarian when you start the weight loss journey.
So, what can you do to help your dog to lose weight?
Taking your dog to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your dog should weigh, as well as rule out any problems which may be the reason why your dog weighs more than he or she should.
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If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
