Springtime Pet Health Care: Here's What to Do

Warmer weather means it's time to take care of your pet's health

The arrival of spring means more time outdoors with your pet, but environmental factors can pose health risks to both dogs and cats during this time of year. Warmer temperatures, fine dust, pollen, and more can trigger respiratory illnesses and allergies, so be careful. Here are some springtime health tips that pet parents should know.

1. Dogs: Beware of fine particulate matter and oil-based fertilizers

Fine dust can cause respiratory and eye problems in puppies. Take them for walks slowly so they don't get excited, and clean their fur and eyes when you get home. Avoid using dog masks as they can interfere with breathing.

Beware of milkweed fertilizer: Often used in parks and flower beds during walks, milkweed fertilizer contains a toxic substance (ricin) that can be fatal if ingested. If ingested, your dog should have a gastric lavage at the vet immediately.

2. Cats: Immunity and safety during the season

Immunity: Cats are susceptible to viral infections (calicivirus, herpesvirus) during the season. Boost their immunity with regular vaccinations and supplemental nutrition.

Prevent falls from heights: If you leave windows open during ventilation, check the condition of cat screens or insect screens to prevent your cat from falling.

3. Manage allergies and cleanliness

Pollen, mold spores, etc. can trigger allergies during the spring season. Dogs can suffer from itchy skin, and cats can develop dermatitis from excessive grooming. To prevent this, do the following

Clean your home thoroughly and keep pet supplies clean.

Provide nutritional supplements or vitamin-rich treats to ease allergies.

4. Diet to boost immunity

To boost your pet's immune system, offer foods rich in protein (salmon, chicken breast) and vitamins (sweet potatoes, blueberries). When introducing new foods, start with small amounts and monitor digestion.

FAQs

Q1: What should I do if my dog is exposed to fine dust?

A1: Brush their coat after a walk and clean their eyes with a special eye wash. If you notice any severe redness or abnormalities, visit your veterinarian immediately.

Q2: What is oil-based fertilizer?

A2: It's a fertilizer made from oil residue from castor beans and other oils that contains a toxic ingredient (ricin) that can be fatal to dogs.

Q3: How can I prevent my cat from catching a cold during the season?

A3: Strengthen their immune system with regular vaccinations and good nutrition. Avoiding dry environments and maintaining proper humidity is also important.

Q4: How do I prevent cat falls from heights?

A4: Install a cat-proof window screen or keep your cat in another room when opening windows.

Q5: What foods boost my pet's immunity?

A5: Proteins like salmon and chicken breast and vitamin-rich treats like blueberries and sweet potatoes are good choices.

Summary

With the warmer weather comes the importance of pet health care during the spring season. Environmental factors such as large temperature swings, fine dust, and pollen can trigger respiratory illnesses and allergies in dogs and cats. Dogs need to be careful about exposure to fine dust and fertilizer on walks, and cats need to be protected from seasonal immune suppression and falls from heights. You'll also need to keep them clean to prevent allergies and provide them with immune-boosting nutrition.

#pethealth #springtidyup #particulatematter #catsafety #dogwalking

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