Pet Health Questions
From Adviceopedia
Pets deserve the same level of care and attention as human family members, which is why it is important for pet owners to obtain answers to common pet health questions. Because all animals are different, and some may have special needs or require individualized medical care, it is essential to speak with your veterinarian about any specific concerns you have about your pet's health.
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Common Pet Health Questions
How Much Exercise Does the Average Pet Need?
While the exact amount of exercise your pet needs depends on many factors, including the type of pet you have and his age, breed, and overall well-being, all pets require daily exercise to maintain optimum health and a stable weight. Daily exercise also provides an outlet for destructive and aggressive behavior, and regular playtime provides mental stimulation and the opportunity for socialization.
Inactive pets are prone to weight gain and are at increased risk for arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Ideally, your pet should have access to a safe area to play in, such as a fenced yard or animal park. When this is not possible, taking your animal for daily walks is sufficient to meet his activity needs.
What Special Care Is Required During Hot Weather?
Dogs, cats, and other pets are at high risk of dehydration and heat stroke during the summer months, primarily due to their small body size. Fortunately, these dangers are preventable. Making certain your pet has continuous access to water, and providing him with a cool, shady place to rest and play will protect him from the dangers of dehydration, heat stroke, and sunburn. Watch your pet for signs of overheating and dehydration, such as panting, increased heart rate, weakness, and drooling. If you notice these symptoms in your pet, move him to an air-conditioned location and offer him water. If his symptoms persist or become worse, call your veterinarian.
Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even if the air conditioning is running. Without air conditioning, a parked car can become hot enough to kill a dog or cat within minutes. Leaving your engine running to provide air conditioning is also risky, as your pet may climb around inside your vehicle, potentially hitting the gearshift and causing an accident.
What Special Care Is Required During Cold Weather?
While you might think your pet's thick fur coat naturally protects him against the cold of winter, pets face special health challenges during the coldest months of the year. Cats, especially, are vulnerable to hypothermia during freezing temperatures, and many cats climb under the hoods of cars to escape the cold. If a car motor starts while a cat is sleeping under the hood, the fan belt may cause serious injury or death. Always bang on the hood of your car before starting your engine during the winter, even if you do not own any cats. Neighborhood cats might be using your car as a hotel.
Never allow your dog to roam off his leash in snow or ice, especially in unfamiliar locations. Dogs rely on their sense of smell to determine their location, and they may lose their scent and become lost during the winter months. According to the ASPCA, more dogs are lost during the winter months than any other time of year. Dogs also face an increased risk of poisoning during the winter, when humans often leave antifreeze and salt lying around. Wash your dog's paws thoroughly after every trip outdoors to prevent him from accidental poisoning caused by licking his feet clean.
What Pet Illnesses Can Be Treated at Home?
New pet owners have a more difficult time determining when to call their veterinarian. Once you become more familiar with your animal, it will be easier to spot signs of serious illness. However, if there is ever any doubt as to the cause of your pet's symptoms, it is important to call your veterinarian promptly. Regularly grooming your pet and paying attention to his behavior when he is well, will provide you with valuable baseline information during times of illness. Your veterinarian may be willing to give you a list of symptoms that require an office visit, so be sure to discuss all your pet health questions and concerns at your pet's next appointment.
Unless your pet suffers from an underlying medical disorder that requires regular veterinary care, you can treat most common health conditions at home. Pets are susceptible to viral infections just like humans, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. If your dog or cat shows signs of a cold, allergies, or gastrointestinal bug, but seems otherwise healthy, let him rest and give him extra fluids until the symptoms pass. However, if your pet is vomiting or has diarrhea without an obvious cause, you should call your veterinarian for advice. Lethargy, shaking, excessive drinking, abnormal urination, refusal to eat, yellowing of the eyes, seizures, or confusion all require immediate veterinary attention.
