How To Maintain Your Pet’s Health

You want your pet to love and comfort you for a long time. To keep your dog or cat thriving for years, you need to properly maintain his health. Here are some tips for doing so.

1. Watch and Supplement His Diet

Dogs and cats need proper nutrients in order to thrive. Don’t just feed your pet the first food you see in the store. Read the label on the side of the bag carefully and make sure the food contains natural ingredients.

Ideally, the food you buy should have high protein content and include real meat or fish as the main ingredient. Foods that contain grains such as oats and corn are typically lower quality.

Portion sizes are important, as well. While the manufacturer may suggest certain serving amounts, you may need to depart from these guidelines based on your pet's health situation.

Finally, don’t be afraid to add nutritional supplements such as Nutra Thrive to your pet's diet. If you are worried about the cost of these supplements, a Nutra Thrive coupon code is available.

2. Give Him Exercise

Pets need exercise just as much as humans do. Thankfully, you can keep yourself and your dog fit by taking him on regular walks. Walks promote a dog's heart health and prevent your pet from gaining weight. This is particularly important because excess weight can lower a pet's life expectancy by at least two years.

Most dogs ideally need two 15-minute walks per day. Don’t push your pet beyond his limits. Older dogs, in particular, may not be able to walk for that long. Younger pets, meanwhile, may need extended walks to expend all their energy.

To keep your pet safe on these walks, keep him away from hot, deep or slippery areas. You should also avoid walking your pet during the coldest or hottest parts of the day.

Don’t forget that cats require exercise, too. Set up activities for your cat that let him run around as he plays. You can even train your cat to wear a harness and go on a walk as a dog does.

3. Take Him to the Veterinarian

Your dog or cat may not like trips to the vet, but they are necessary to keep your pet healthy. The doctor can spay or neuter your pet. The vet should also administer vaccinations to protect your pet from rabies, distemper and other potentially deadly illnesses.

You should thus schedule an annual exam with your pet's veterinarian. The doctor can spot and treat potential issues before they become serious.

During the visit, be sure to ask the doctor about flea and tick medication. The vet should know which parasite medicines are right for your particular pet. Stock up on the preventative medication so your dog or cat will have it if he needs it.

4. Keep His Mouth Healthy

While vets can check your pet's mouth during your regular checkups, you should also start a regular oral hygiene routine at home. Try brushing your dog or cat's teeth each day. If your pet doesn’t like the toothbrush, you can try mouth wipes or antiseptic rinses instead.

5. Focus on His Mental and Social Health

Boosting your pet's mental health benefits both you and your furry friend. An animal that is not properly stimulated will start destroying your belongings out of boredom.

Daily walks with your pet should help. Take your dog (or cat!) to different places in your town. Your pet will appreciate the new sights and sounds.

Similarly, playing with the same toys all day can make your pet restless. Instead, rotate the toys so your pet stays interested in them.

You should also give your pet toys that stimulate the senses. Stuffed animals that make noises are a great option. Alternatively, you can sprinkle mint or cinnamon inside the toy to excite your pet. You can also set up an obstacle course in your home or plan other fun activities that get your pet thinking.

You can even make mealtime fun and stimulating for your pet. Puzzle feeders will force them to use their brains and prevent them from eating too quickly.

Social health is important for pets, as well. Take your dog or cat to the park or beach so he can meet other animals and people. If your pet still needs training, opt for a class that teaches him to behave while letting him make new friends.

By following the above steps, you can keep your pet healthy in 2020 and beyond. Your dog or cat will appreciate that you are taking care of him. Meanwhile, you will get to enjoy your pet's love for years to come.