 Our health is key to living a long life, and the same is true for our pets. Several factors influence the likelihood of your pet living a long life, and although genetics play a role, understanding what impacts pet health is hugely beneficial. By making some small changes, you can help to lengthen your pet’s lifespan, but also ensure a high quality of life, too.
We’ll be exploring how to keep your pet healthy, focusing on some of the different things that influence your pet’s health, as well as small changes you can incorporate into your lifestyle that can benefit your pet. Guide To Pet Health Your pet’s health plays a huge role in your pet’s quality of life, so understanding what influences pet health and how you can help them, can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know about the role of nutrition, exercise, socialisation, age and the type of pet you have on your pet’s overall health, and how you can help them to live the best life possible. Nutrition A balanced diet is a key pillar of pet health, and choosing the right food can benefit your pet immensely. Our pets need a variety of nutrients to maintain their energy levels and support healthy growth, which is why choosing the right food is key. Dog and cat food is often specifically formulated for your pet’s age, breed size, and activity level, which can ensure that their diet is as tailored as possible. Just like humans, pets can become overweight if their calorie intake exceeds their activity level, which is why it’s important to consult your veterinarian to determine the proper feeding amount for your pet if you are unsure. Additionally, offering homemade food might be tempting - particularly if your pet likes the taste of it - but human food may not provide all the nutrients your pet requires, and it can also contribute to obesity if consumed in portions that are too large for your pet. Exercise Physical activity is vital to the health of your pet as it keeps them fit, and mentally stimulated, and helps manage weight. The type and amount of exercise your pet needs will vary depending on their species, age, and overall health, which is why it’s not a one-size-fits-all. More energetic pets may require hours of exercise a day, whereas elderly pets may not be able to do more than a short walk. You must tailor your pet's exercise to them, and veterinarians can be very helpful with this. routine to their unique needs and instincts. Genetics Different breeds and types of pets have different requirements with nutrition and exercise, but also in their health care, too. As a result of selective breeding practices, some pets can have an increased risk of certain inherited conditions, such as respiratory problems and joint issues. Whilst this shouldn’t dissuade you from choosing a specific breed or type of pet, education can help ensure your pet has a healthy life. From consulting with responsible breeders to regular veterinary checkups, understanding what to expect and what to look for when raising a pet whose breed is known to have issues can help them live healthier lives. AgeJust like humans, as our pets age, so too do their health requirements. Their diets may need to be adjusted due to less energy and physical activity, joint issues may cause issues with mobility and comfort, and dental issues can make eating difficult. Whilst your pet may not be able to talk to you, they can communicate how they feel through their behaviour. This may be eating less, walking less, fatigue, or socialising less. If you notice a behaviour change, you should visit the vet. As our pets age, regular veterinary visits can ensure any issues that arise are dealt with in the right manner. Socialisation Socialisation plays a big part in our pets’ lives, just as ours. Being exposed to new people, animals, and environments positively can help them during developmental stages, but it’s also key in helping to maintain pet health. Mental stimulation plays a significant role in their overall well-being, so this must be maintained throughout your pet’s lifetime. Grooming Grooming may seem like just an aesthetic practice, but it is key to keeping our pets healthy. In addition to hygiene, grooming ensures that your pet's fur and skin are healthy, so it’s important that your pet grooms regularly. Whilst cats may take care of this on their own, brushing, bathing, and trimming nails are just some grooming practices that play a big role in their overall health. Several factors influence pet health, and understanding their role can help you to provide the best possible care for your pet. In addition to nutrition, exercise, and grooming, preventive care is another essential for your pet's overall health. Regular deworming and heartworm prevention, as well as vaccinations, can help to keep your pet healthy. At Ripponlea we understand that your pet is like family, which is why we offer the best preventative care, treatments, and advice on how to keep your pet healthy. Whether your pet is young or old, big or small, schedule an appointment with us to ensure the best quality of life for your pet! Comments are closed.
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82 Glen Eira Road Ripponlea Vic 3185
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