Got a new furry member in your family, or maybe you're just trying to be the best pet parent you can be? Either way, you've probably got a bunch of questions about how to keep them happy and healthy. Don't worry, though; you're not alone, as 71% of pet owners say they would do anything to keep their pets happy, so to help, we've put together this short guide to tackle some of the most common questions that pet owners have. From what to feed them to how often they should see the vet, below you'll hopefully find the answers you're looking for.
What should I feed my pet?
Knowing what goes into your pet's food bowl is just as important as the love and affection you give them. Just like feeding a child, you'll need to ensure they have a healthy and balanced diet. For starters, every pet's diet needs will vary depending on their age, size, breed, and health condition, but there are some general rules that apply across the board.
Dogs and cats, for example, require a balanced diet that includes proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. High-quality commercial pet foods are formulated to meet these needs, but it's crucial to check the labels.
For those considering homemade diets, it's essential to consult with a vet to ensure your pet's meals are nutritionally complete. As per advice from the Dog's Trust, it's difficult to give your dog everything they need with a homemade or raw food diet, so it can be best to buy commercial food rather than make your own.
How often should my pet visit the vet?
Regular vet check-ups are crucial to keeping your pet in top health, but how often should these visits be? The answer varies, but there are some general guidelines to help you plan.
For puppies and kittens, frequent visits are necessary. They should ideally see the vet every 3 to 4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old for vaccinations and health checkups. As your furry friend gets older, annual visits are the norm. These visits are great for catching any potential health issues early and keeping vaccinations up to date.
As pets get older, they may need more frequent visits. Typically, those over 7 years old should have a check-up at least twice a year. Older pets are more susceptible to chronic conditions like arthritis, obesity, and heart disease, so more regular vet visits can help manage these issues effectively.
Of course, if your pet seems unwell or exhibits unusual behaviour like a decreased appetite, lethargy, or sudden weight changes, don't wait for the regular check-up—see your vet immediately. Remember, you know your pet best, so keep an eye on any changes, and if in doubt, talk to your vet.
How do I know if my pet is getting enough exercise?
Ensuring your pet gets enough exercise is vital for their physical and mental health. But how much is enough? Well, generally, dogs need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of physical activity every day, depending on their breed, age, and health. The PDSA advises that some breeds need one to two hours of exercise per day, but others, such as working breeds, need significantly more. Cats, on the other hand, benefit from shorter, more frequent sessions of play that simulate hunting behaviours. Unlike dogs, they don't require taking out for walks, but you'll need to ensure they are moving about enough.
If you're unsure whether they have had enough exercise, look for signs that they are alert but not overly hyper, maintain a healthy weight, and sleep soundly at night. If, on the other hand, your pet is restless, paces about frequently, or gains weight, it may be a sign they need more exercise.
What are the benefits of pet insurance, and should I get it?
Deciding whether to get pet insurance is much easier when understanding how it can benefit you and your pet. Pet insurance primarily helps manage the costs of vet treatment for your furry friends, which can be ideal during unexpected emergencies like accidents or sudden illnesses. It can help cover a substantial part of the treatment costs, from minor issues to major surgeries, depending on the policy you choose. Providers such as Petsure allow you to choose a pet insurance policy with a vet fee of up to £15,000, so you can choose a suitable limit that's right for you and your pet.
Besides emergency care, many plans also cover routine check-ups, vaccinations, and even some pre-existing conditions. If you visit the vet regularly, having coverage ensures your pet maintains good health and receives preventive care, which can extend their life expectancy and quality of life.
However, choosing the right insurance is important, so you'll need to compare different policies to see what they cover, what they exclude, and how much they cost each year. For many pet owners, the peace of mind of knowing that they can afford care in the face of hefty vet bills is worth the monthly premium. So, whilst not compulsory to have, it can be the difference between getting the help your pet needs and being able to afford treatment.
How do I handle pet behaviour issues?
Not every pet will be as well-behaved as others, so knowing what to do is important to be able to help them get into better habits. The first step is identifying the root cause of the behaviour. Is your dog barking excessively? Perhaps they need more exercise or mental stimulation. Is your cat scratching the furniture? They might require a proper scratching post and more engaging toys.
Positive reinforcement is key here, so reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime to reinforce these actions. Consistency is needed, so getting everyone in your household involved in trying is a good idea. Using the same commands will help avoid confusing your pet, too.
Sometimes, you may need the help of a professional, so for things like separation anxiety or signs of aggression that aren't playful, speaking to an animal behaviourist can be effective. Remember, behaviour change doesn't happen overnight, and it requires time, consistency, and understanding. With persistent effort, most behaviour issues can be successfully managed or resolved.
Did You Find These Answers Helpful?
These are just a handful of the many questions you may have about pet ownership, so if the answer you're looking for isn't above, it's best to speak to your vet for more personalised advice. They will be able to answer specific questions about your particular pet's species or breed, whether you have a dog, cat, snake, or hamster.
A good pet owner is one who is invested in their pet's health and well-being, so having more questions is a good sign you're looking out for them and trying your best. Every step you take makes a difference in your pet's life, so stay curious, keep learning, and enjoy the rewarding journey of pet parenthood.
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