The start of a new year is the perfect time to set health goals for everyone in the family—including your furry friends! Like us, our pets benefit from regular health checkups, balanced diets, and plenty of exercise. Here are some tips to help your pet stay happy and healthy in the year ahead.
- Schedule a Wellness Checkup
Regular health checkups are essential for spotting potential issues early. A wellness exam can help ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and overall health. Book an appointment with us to kick off the year with a thorough checkup.
2. Focus on Nutrition
A balanced diet is key to maintaining your pet’s health. Make sure you’re feeding age-appropriate, high-quality food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs. If you’re unsure about the best diet for your pet, ask our team for advice during your next visit.
Tip: Avoid overfeeding! Measure portions carefully to prevent weight gain, and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.
3. Get Moving
Exercise isn’t just for humans! Regular activity helps keep your pet’s weight in check, strengthens their muscles, and supports mental health.
For Cats: Interactive toys, laser pointers, or climbing towers encourage activity indoors.
For Dogs: Daily walks, playtime, or even agility training can work wonders.
4. Monitor your Pets Weight
Excess weight can lead to health issues like diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. Use the body condition score (BCS) system to assess your pet’s weight. If your pet is carrying a few extra pounds, our team can recommend a safe weight-loss plan.
5. Dental Care Matters
Oral health is often overlooked, but it’s vital to your pet’s overall well-being. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste and consider dental chews or toys to reduce plaque buildup.
6. Mental Enrichment
Mental stimulation is as important as physical activity. Puzzle feeders, new toys, and training sessions can keep your pet’s mind sharp. For dogs, learning a new trick is a great way to bond while providing enrichment. Rotating toys or adding a window perch can make a big difference for cats.
7. Preventative Care is Key
Stay ahead of health issues with preventative care. Ensure your pet is protected against fleas, ticks, and worms year-round. If you haven’t already, consider joining our Pet Care Plan to spread the cost of preventative treatments across the year.
8. Spend Time Together
The best goal of all? Strengthening your bond with your pet. Whether it’s extra cuddles on the sofa, a new adventure outdoors, or simply being present during their playtime, your attention means the world to them.
Starting the new year with these health goals will prepare your pet for a fantastic 2025. If you have questions or need advice, our team at Warren House Veterinary Centre is here to help. Let’s make this year the healthiest one yet for your beloved companion!
Call us today to book your pet’s wellness checkup or to learn more about our Pet Care Plan . Let’s work together to keep your pet happy and healthy in 2025!
Thank you for reading, until next time…