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Pets like cats or dogs can act as great companions for people and have scientifically been shown to improve a person’s health and well-being.
However, pets can catch many different types of diseases that not only make them sick but can also spread to you and the rest of your family or friends. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent disease transmission and keep your pets healthy.
Here are five things you can do to keep your pets disease-free.
Keep Your Hands Clean
By far the easiest and most effective thing you can do to avoid the spread of disease is to wash your hands after you pet your cat or dog, give them their food, and clean up after them.
Even if your pet isn’t sick, washing your hands after playing with them will ensure no germs pass over. You can use soap and warm water or hand sanitizer to wash your hands.
Know What Your Pet Eats
A healthy diet is not only crucial for people, but pets too. Unfortunately, more often than not, you might find your pet getting curious and tipping over trash cans to find food.
This can lead to them ingesting expired food that’s filled with bacteria and parasites, which can cause food poisoning or other kinds of diseases. That’s why it’s also best to avoid using the same plates and bowls as your pet.
Make Routine Vet Visits
Signs of illness in pets are not always noticeable immediately. An annual or twice-yearly pet wellness exam by a professional veterinarian can play a significant role in keeping your pet healthy and disease free.
A professional vet can uncover diseases in your pet that may not show noticeable symptoms. They will also run different tests like bloodwork and a fecal exam. If they find something unusual, they’ll recommend the best course of treatment.
Check Your Pet When They Come Inside
If your pet spends most of their day outside, doing who knows what, make sure to check them for fleas and ticks just to be safe. Indoor pets might catch germs or diseases from your outdoor pets as well.
If you notice a tick, get it removed safely as soon as possible to lower the risk of your pet developing an infection or getting sick. If you’re not sure how to do it, schedule an appointment with your vet.
Get the Appropriate Vaccines
Vaccinating your pet appropriately based on their environment and lifestyle is one of the best things you can do to prevent disease. A lot of vaccinations might be required depending on where you live, while your vet might recommend some others for your pet specifically. Vaccines can help prevent several diseases, including:
- Heartworms
- Distemper
- Intestinal worms
- Lyme disease
- Bordetella
- Parvovirus
- Rabies
Some vaccinations require boosters every few years, so it’s important to follow the vaccination schedule you’re provided for your pet.