Taking care of pets is a growing priority in India, with over 100 million pets expected by 2025. Yet, many pet owners struggle with understanding their pets' health needs. This guide simplifies key aspects of pet care, from spotting illness to daily routines:

• Spot Illness Early: Watch for changes in appetite, weight, behaviour, or bathroom habits. Persistent symptoms need a vet visit.
• Vaccinations: Core vaccines like DHPP and Rabies are crucial. Non-core vaccines depend on local risks (e.g., Leptospirosis in flood-prone areas).
• Grooming: Regular grooming prevents skin issues, especially in India's varying climate. Use season-specific care like cooling shampoos in summer.
• Dental Care: Brush 2–3 times a week with pet-safe toothpaste. Dental chews and vet check-ups help maintain oral health.
• Nutrition: Ensure a balanced diet with proteins, fats, and vitamins. Avoid overfeeding and harmful human foods like chocolate or onions.
• Preventive Care: Regular vet visits, parasite prevention, and health supplements reduce risks of chronic illnesses by 30%.

Proactive care and monitoring can improve your pet's quality of life while reducing long-term health costs.

Pet Education - How to Keep Your Pet Healthy 101

How to Spot Signs of Illness in Your Pet

Identifying when your pet is unwell can be tricky - they can’t exactly tell you what’s wrong. Gaurav Ajmera, Founder of Vetic, highlights this challenge:

"Our four-legged companions bring immense joy and love to our lives. However, when it comes to their health and well-being, pet parents experience significant stress and anxiety. Pets hide signs of illness due to instinct, delaying diagnosis."

The key to recognising illness is understanding what’s normal for your pet. Each pet has its unique habits and behaviours, so knowing their routine helps you detect changes early. Observing and documenting these shifts is a proactive way to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Early Warning Signs to Monitor

Certain changes in your pet’s behaviour or physical condition can indicate underlying health problems. Here are some early signs to watch for:

• Appetite and thirst changes: A sudden loss of appetite or an unusual increase in thirst could signal potential issues.
• Weight fluctuations: Unexplained weight loss or gain might point to digestive problems, parasites, or hormonal imbalances. Regularly weighing your pet can help you catch these changes early.
• Behavioural shifts: If your pet becomes withdrawn, unexpectedly aggressive, or persistently lethargic, it could indicate a problem.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea: While occasional vomiting is normal, persistent vomiting (especially with blood or foreign material) or diarrhoea lasting more than a day requires veterinary attention.
• Respiratory issues: Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or unusual panting should not be ignored. In India’s varying climate, such symptoms can worsen during extreme heat or the monsoon season.
• Skin problems: Excessive scratching, hair loss, or neglected grooming might signal skin conditions or internal issues. Regular home grooming can help you spot ticks, infections, lumps, or unusual discharges.
• Bathroom habit changes: Difficulty urinating, blood in urine, or changes in frequency can indicate urinary tract infections or more serious conditions.
• Dental issues: Bad breath or trouble eating may point to dental problems or other internal concerns.

For senior pets (over 8 years), these signs are even more critical, as they are more prone to age-related illnesses and lifestyle diseases.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

If any concerning symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, it’s time to visit your vet. Dr Shantanu Kalambi, Chief Veterinarian at a digital pet care platform, advises:

"Be observant of warning signs and learn to identify dangerous symptoms to help make the best decisions for your pet's health."

Here’s when to act quickly:

• Persistent or severe symptoms: If symptoms last beyond 24 hours, appear severe, or involve multiple warning signs at once, consult your vet immediately.
• Emergency situations: Difficulty breathing, continuous vomiting or diarrhoea, signs of severe pain, collapse, or seizures require urgent attention. These conditions can worsen rapidly.
• Contagious illnesses: Symptoms like persistent coughing, unusual discharge, or skin conditions should be addressed promptly - not only for your pet’s health but also to prevent spreading illness. Inform your vet beforehand if you suspect a contagious condition so they can prepare appropriately.
• Unusual patterns: Changes in eating, sleeping, or activity levels - even without other obvious symptoms - warrant a vet visit.

When you visit the vet, be as detailed as possible about your pet’s symptoms and habits. Keep a log of changes, noting when they started and how frequently they occur. This information can assist your veterinarian in diagnosing the issue more efficiently.

Daily Care Basics for Indian Pet Owners

Caring for pets in India comes with its own set of challenges, thanks to the country's diverse climate. From scorching summers to the damp monsoons and chilly winters, pet owners need to adapt their routines to keep their furry friends healthy and comfortable. Here’s a guide to handling vaccinations, grooming, and dental care in the Indian context.

Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention

Vaccinations are a critical part of keeping your pet healthy. The DHPP vaccine, also known as the 5-in-1 vaccine, is essential to protect against diseases like Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza. Puppies usually start their vaccination schedule between 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3–4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Rabies vaccination is typically given at 12–16 weeks, followed by a booster after a year.

Dr. CP Sen, a veterinary specialist at Virbac India, highlights the importance of staying on top of vaccinations:

"Timely vaccinations are more cost-effective than treating the diseases they prevent".

Non-core vaccines may also be necessary, depending on your pet's lifestyle. For instance, if your dog interacts with other dogs in parks or boarding facilities, the Kennel Cough vaccine is recommended annually. In flood-prone areas or regions where water contamination is a concern, vaccines against Leptospirosis are crucial.

Vaccine	Purpose	Age for Administration	Booster Schedule
Rabies	Prevents a deadly viral disease affecting the CNS	12–16 weeks, then after a year	Every 1–3 years, as per local laws
DHPP	Protects against several contagious diseases	6–8 weeks, with boosters until 16 weeks	Annually
Leptospirosis	Prevents bacterial infections from contaminated water	Part of DHPP-L combination	Consult your veterinarian
Kennel Cough	Protects against respiratory infections	For dogs in social settings	Annually or every six months

Parasite prevention is another year-round requirement in India. Flea collars, spot-on treatments, and oral medications can protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites. Heartworm prevention is especially vital, given India's climate. To keep track of vaccination schedules and parasite prevention, apps like Vetic can be handy.

After vaccinations and parasite control, grooming plays a big role in maintaining your pet's health.

Grooming and Cleanliness

India's climate can take a toll on your pet's skin and coat, making regular grooming essential. Grooming not only keeps your pet looking good but also helps prevent skin infections, ticks, and fleas, especially during hot and humid months.

Adjust grooming routines based on the season. In the summer, frequent baths with cooling shampoos can help your pet stay comfortable. During the monsoon, drying your pet thoroughly after exposure to rain is crucial to avoid fungal infections. In winter, limit baths to preserve natural oils, and use moisturising shampoos when necessary.

Indian pariah dogs, or Indies, are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short coat requires only a daily brushing with a curry brush or grooming glove, and a bath every few weeks is usually sufficient. For all pets, hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners designed for dogs are recommended. After baths, applying a coat serum (avoiding the face) can keep the coat shiny and healthy. A neem oil massage before a bath is a natural way to maintain skin moisture, and pet wipes are great for quick clean-ups between baths.

Urban pollution can also affect your pet's coat, so regular grooming helps remove dirt and pollutants, reducing the risk of skin irritation. The frequency of grooming depends on your pet's coat type, activity level, and local weather conditions.

While grooming takes care of external cleanliness, dental hygiene is equally important for your pet's overall health.

Dental Care for Pets

Dental problems are surprisingly common, affecting nearly 80% of dogs by the age of three. Plaque can start forming just 12 hours after a professional cleaning, which makes regular dental care a must.

Dr. CP Sen stresses the importance of dental hygiene:

"Dog teeth cleaning is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. By prioritising your dog's dental hygiene and establishing dog teeth cleaning routine, you can enhance their overall health and ensure they enjoy a happier and more comfortable life".

Brushing your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste is recommended. Avoid using human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to pets. If your dog resists brushing, dental wipes are a good alternative.

You can also supplement dental care with dental chews and toys that have textured surfaces to help remove plaque. Feeding your pet a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates can further reduce plaque buildup.

Keep an eye out for signs of dental issues, such as swollen or bleeding gums, discoloured teeth, bad breath, or discomfort while chewing. Other warning signs include tartar buildup, lumps in the mouth, or a sudden loss of appetite. Regular dental check-ups with your vet can help catch problems early. While tooth decay is rare in dogs, gum disease and tartar buildup are common and require consistent care.

Pet Nutrition and Diet Changes

Feeding pets the right way is crucial, but many Indian pet owners still find themselves unsure about what their pets truly need. With the Indian pet food market expected to grow from ₹7,032 crore in 2024 to ₹16,500 crore by 2030, there’s an overwhelming variety of options - and just as much confusion - when it comes to choosing the right diet.

What Your Pet Needs to Eat

Pets require six essential nutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. These are the building blocks for their overall health and bodily functions. Dogs, for instance, need a mix of plant and animal-based foods, but their specific requirements vary depending on their age and health.

For example, puppies need food that supports their rapid growth, including adequate calcium for strong bones. Senior pets, however, may benefit from diets that are lower in calories but rich in easily digestible proteins. Nutritional guidelines, like those from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), can help ensure that commercial pet foods meet these basic dietary needs.

When picking food, it’s best to look for products made with whole-food ingredients rather than fillers or by-products. Portion control is also key. A veterinarian can help calculate your pet’s daily calorie needs based on factors like activity level and body condition.

If you’re considering homemade diets, supplements can be added to fill nutritional gaps. Ingredients like coconut oil or fish oil provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for skin and coat health. But before making any changes, consult a veterinarian to tailor the diet to your pet’s age, breed, and health needs.

Both commercial and homemade diets have their pros and cons. Commercial pet foods are convenient and often nutritionally balanced, but quality varies across brands. Opt for ones with transparent ingredient lists. Homemade meals, on the other hand, allow you to control what goes into your pet’s bowl, ensuring freshness and avoiding additives, but they require a solid understanding of pet nutrition to avoid imbalances.

Interestingly, there’s no major difference in nutrition or digestibility between dry and canned dog food. Sometimes, a dry food listing corn as its primary ingredient can even be better formulated than one that lists meat first - it all depends on the overall recipe.

Dealing with Food Allergies

Beyond meeting basic dietary needs, pet owners should also be aware of food allergies and intolerances. Allergies trigger immune responses, while intolerances affect digestion. Symptoms of food allergies include persistent itching, recurring ear infections, digestive issues, and skin problems like hot spots or excessive scratching. Intolerances, on the other hand, might cause vomiting, diarrhoea, gas, and a dull coat.

While grain allergies in dogs are rare, most food allergies are linked to animal proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, and lamb, as well as other ingredients like soy, wheat, eggs, and corn. Diagnosing food allergies typically involves an elimination diet trial. This means feeding your pet a limited-ingredient or hydrolysed protein diet for 8–12 weeks and monitoring symptoms. Once symptoms improve, potential allergens are reintroduced one by one to identify the culprit.

Food allergies can appear at any age. If you suspect one, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Managing allergies usually involves removing the offending ingredient from your pet’s diet and carefully reading food labels to avoid accidental exposure. For intolerances, dietary adjustments and possibly probiotics can help improve digestion.

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Feeding mistakes are surprisingly common and can harm your pet’s health. Overfeeding is a major issue, with about 40% of adult cats and dogs worldwide classified as overweight or obese. In India, studies estimate that 63% of pet cats and 59.3% of pet dogs fall into this category. Dr Deepraj Prajapati, senior veterinarian at RD Pet Hospital Ambedkar Nagar, highlights the problem:

"One of the most common mistakes is equating food with affection. Many pet parents show love by offering extra treats or human food, unaware that even small indulgences can lead to calorie overload in animals. Another issue is misjudging appropriate portion size, owners often rely on visual estimation or outdated feeding guidelines rather than tailored advice from a vet."

Misleading pet food marketing also plays a role. Products often claim to be "healthy" or "nutritionally complete", but their portion sizes are based on ideal conditions, ignoring factors like age, activity level, or breed. Treats alone can account for 15–20% of a pet’s daily calorie intake if not managed carefully.

Feeding inappropriate human foods is another danger. Items like chocolate, onions, garlic, and spicy dishes are toxic to dogs and can cause anything from stomach upset to severe poisoning. Avoid these entirely.

Many pet owners also misunderstand their pet’s specific nutritional needs. Factors like species, breed, age, and health status are often overlooked, leading to poor dietary choices and ignoring veterinarian advice. Homemade diets without proper planning can result in imbalances, and imposing human eating habits - like vegetarian diets for carnivorous pets - can be harmful.

To avoid these pitfalls, work with your veterinarian to determine accurate portion sizes and critically evaluate label claims. Addressing pet obesity requires consistent dietary changes, increased physical activity, and regular monitoring. As Dr Prajapati advises, "it requires a committed and gradual approach. Crash diets or sudden exercise routines can be harmful, especially in older pets or those with underlying conditions."

Preventing feeding mistakes starts with education and vigilance. Learn about your pet’s specific nutritional needs, follow veterinary advice, and carefully read ingredient labels. Focus on high-quality proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and maintain consistent feeding schedules with access to fresh water at all times.

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Health Prevention Methods and Products

With the pet care market projected to hit USD 545.7 billion by 2032, and a growing number of Gen Z pet owners in India, focusing on proactive care has never been more important. Pets that receive regular preventive care are 30% less likely to develop chronic illnesses. These measures go beyond daily routines to create a well-rounded approach to keeping pets healthy.

As Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned Primatologist and UN Messenger of Peace, aptly says:

"Keeping a pet healthy is as vital as love is to life."

Regular Vet Check-up Schedule

The cornerstone of preventive pet care is sticking to a regular veterinary check-up schedule. The frequency of these visits depends largely on your pet's age, and following the right schedule can make a real difference in their overall health.

• Puppies and kittens: Visits every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, then every 3–4 months until their first birthday.
• Adult dogs and cats (1-7 years): Annual wellness exams.
• Senior pets (8+ years): Semi-annual check-ups, or every six months.

Life Stage	Recommended Frequency
Puppies and Kittens	Every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks, then every 3–4 months until 1 year
Adult Dogs and Cats	Annually
Senior Dogs and Cats	Semi-annually (every 6 months)

Factors like breed, existing medical conditions, lifestyle, and environment may necessitate more frequent visits. Routine services during these check-ups include wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care. For instance, vaccinated pets experience a 40% decrease in transmissible diseases, and pets receiving proper dental care are 25% less likely to develop oral health problems.

Health Products for Pet Wellness

Between vet visits, certain products can help maintain your pet's health and fill the gaps in their care. Here's a look at some useful options:

• Digestive health: Sara's Boosters Gut & Digestive Health Supplement for Dog (200 gm) priced at ₹899.
• Joint support: Sara's Boosters Bone & Joint Mobility Supplement for Dog (150 g) at ₹349.
• Skin and coat care: HUFT Sardine Oil for Dogs and Cats (200 ml) is ₹499, while Himalaya Furglow Skin and Coat Tonic (200 ml) costs ₹356.

For dental hygiene, the Trixie Toothbrush Set for Dogs and Cats (₹160) includes a finger and massage brush, while Petkin Plaque Spray (120 ml) and Petkin Liquid Oral Care (240 ml), both at ₹799, offer easy, no-brush solutions.

Parasite prevention is critical, given that tick-borne diseases have surged by 41–167% in recent years. The HUFT Complete Tick & Flea Guard Pack (₹1,199) provides comprehensive protection, while HUFT Natural Anti Tick and Flea Powder (100 g) at ₹199 is ideal for targeted prevention. For more severe infestations, Frontline Plus Spot On (₹1,700 for large breeds) offers professional-grade defence.

For paw care, options like HUFT Organic Paw Balm For Dogs (25 g) at ₹299 or Papa Pawsome Soft Paws 100% Natural Paw Cream at ₹224.10 help soothe and protect cracked paw pads.

Online Vet Consultations

Digital consultations are a game-changer for pet owners, offering quick and convenient access to professional advice. These services are especially useful for follow-ups, prescription updates, or non-urgent queries.

Platforms like Animeal connect pet owners with licensed veterinarians, making expert care accessible from the comfort of home. This is particularly helpful for those in remote areas or with limited mobility. While online consultations cannot replace in-person visits, they are a valuable supplement, providing timely guidance on medication dosages, treatment plans, and recognising emergencies.

As Indian Peaks Veterinary Hospital beautifully puts it:

"Preventative care isn't just a medical strategy; it's an act of love, ensuring your furry family member enjoys every moment by your side."

Together with daily care routines, these preventive measures, products, and online resources form a complete strategy for keeping your pet healthy. Building a strong relationship with your veterinarian - whether in person or online - remains key to ensuring your pet's long-term wellness.

Common Pet Health Problems and Solutions

Even with regular preventive care, pets can still face health challenges that demand immediate attention. Spotting and addressing these issues early can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious medical situation. For example, skin infections are a frequent concern for dogs in India, while ear infections affect nearly 20% of the dog population in the country. Digestive troubles also rank high among reasons for vet visits. Below, we'll explore some common health problems and practical solutions.

Skin and Ear Infection Treatment

Skin infections in pets often show up as persistent itching, redness, hair loss, scabs, sores, or greasy skin. You might also notice a foul odour or thickened patches of skin. These issues are particularly common in humid regions, where fungal infections thrive.

To manage skin infections, use vet-recommended antibacterial or antifungal shampoos and medicated creams to ease itching and control the infection. Regular grooming and ensuring your pet's skin is completely dry after baths or swims are also crucial. Additionally, a well-balanced diet can help improve skin health.

Ear infections are another common issue, often identified by symptoms like head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, discharge, or an unpleasant smell. The table below highlights key symptoms to look out for:

Symptom	Description
Head Shaking	Frequent shaking or rubbing of the head, sometimes against surfaces.
Scratching/Pawing	Persistent scratching or pawing at the ears.
Redness/Swelling	Inflamed or swollen ear canal or ear flap.
Odour	Yeasty or foul smell coming from the ear.
Discharge	Yellow, brown, black, or bloody discharge, occasionally with pus.
Balance Issues	Head tilt, circling, or stumbling, often linked to deeper infections.

Check your dog's ears weekly for signs of redness, debris, or odour. After baths or swimming, dry their ears thoroughly and clean them with products approved by your vet - avoiding the use of cotton swabs inside the ear canal. Avoid over-the-counter treatments or home remedies, as these can worsen the problem. If an infection is suspected, consult your vet and follow the prescribed treatment course fully, even if symptoms improve early.

Stomach Problems and Digestive Issues

Digestive problems are another frequent health concern for pets, ranging from mild discomfort to emergencies. Common causes include eating inappropriate foods, allergies, stress, infections, or intestinal blockages.

For mild symptoms, feed your pet small, frequent meals of bland food like boiled chicken and rice. Ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water. If you’re introducing new foods, do so gradually over one to two weeks. A calm and familiar environment can also help reduce stress-related digestive problems.

Emergency signs such as frequent vomiting, diarrhoea, refusal to drink water, or signs of pain require immediate veterinary attention. If your pet swallows a foreign object or symptoms persist, don’t delay seeking professional care. Stress can also play a big role in digestive health - changes in routine, a new family member, or a new pet can trigger these issues. With proper treatment, survival rates for serious conditions like Canine Parvovirus can range between 68% and 92%.

Pet Health Problem Comparison Chart

Here's a quick summary of common pet health issues, symptoms, and recommended actions:

Health Problem	Key Symptoms	Potential Causes	Immediate Actions	When to See Vet
Skin Infections	Itching, redness, hair loss, smelly skin	Bacteria, fungi, allergies	Use medicated shampoos, keep skin dry	If symptoms persist or worsen.
Ear Infections	Head shaking, scratching, discharge	Bacteria, yeast, parasites	Clean ears with vet-approved products	If an infection is suspected.
Diarrhoea	Loose stools	Food allergies, stress	Provide bland food and monitor hydration	If frequent or blood is present.
Vomiting	Retching or vomiting food/liquid	Infections, blockages	Withhold food briefly, ensure hydration	If persistent or with signs of pain.
Loss of Appetite	Reduced food intake or refusal to eat	Stomach upset, illness	Offer bland foods, monitor eating habits	If it lasts more than 24 hours.
Constipation	Straining or difficulty passing stools	Dehydration, dietary issues	Increase fibre, ensure adequate water intake	If no bowel movement for two days.

Being aware of these common health problems can help you act promptly and effectively. While some issues can be managed at home, knowing when to seek professional help is critical to keeping your pet healthy and happy. Balancing home care with timely veterinary intervention is key to ensuring your furry friend's well-being.

Conclusion: Main Points for Pet Health Care

Taking care of your pet doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you focus on consistent, basic care. Regular veterinary check-ups, for instance, have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases by 30%. These visits are crucial because pets often mask signs of discomfort, and by the time symptoms become obvious, serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer may already be advanced.

Pet expert Hussain Jariwala highlights the importance of professional care:

"AI can help detect signs of illness, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Regular vet check-ups remain essential for overall pet health".

Preventive care, including vaccinations and proper dental hygiene, plays a major role in keeping pets healthy. Dental care, for example, prevents harmful bacteria from spreading through the bloodstream and affecting vital organs. Dr. Mark Thompson, DVM, MBA, CCRP, underscores this:

"Regular wellness visits enable early detection and personalized care for your pet. A proactive approach to veterinary care can lead to better outcomes, fewer treatments, and more cherished moments with your furry friend."

In addition to these practices, digital health tools are transforming pet care. Platforms like Animeal provide easy access to prescription medicines, health supplements, and expert advice. With online consultations and fast delivery across India, pet owners can address health issues without delay.

Ultimately, consistency is key. Whether it’s keeping up with vaccinations, monitoring changes in behaviour, or scheduling age-appropriate check-ups, these small, regular efforts lead to big health benefits. Preventive healthcare not only improves your pet’s quality of life but also reduces the need for costly treatments later on.

Every pet’s health journey is different, but the principles remain the same: stay alert, act early, and rely on expert guidance. These actions form the foundation of a happy and healthy life for your furry companion.

FAQs

How can I create a diet plan that meets my pet's unique nutritional needs?

To craft a diet plan that meets your pet's specific nutritional requirements, start by considering key factors such as their breed, age, size, activity level, and any health concerns. It's always a good idea to consult a veterinarian or pet nutritionist, as they can help you determine the right balance of nutrients and portion sizes for your furry friend.

A balanced diet is essential and should include high-quality proteins, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and vital vitamins and minerals. For instance, pets with sensitive stomachs may need easily digestible food, while those prone to weight gain might require controlled portions and low-calorie options. Be cautious with human foods - items like chocolate, onions, and anything spicy can be dangerous for pets.

You might also consider breed-specific or life-stage-specific pet foods available in India, designed to address needs like joint health, skin and coat care, or weight control. Always provide access to clean drinking water and keep an eye on your pet’s weight and energy levels to make any necessary adjustments to their diet.

How can I groom my pet effectively in India's changing weather?

Grooming your pet in India’s varied climate means tailoring your approach to the changing seasons. During humid months, it’s important to bathe your pet regularly with pet-safe antifungal shampoos to ward off skin infections. Make sure to dry them completely after each bath, as damp fur can lead to problems. In the summer, cut back on bathing to preserve their natural skin oils, and think about using cooling mats to help them stay comfortable. When winter rolls around, bathing should be kept to a minimum, and you can use protective clothing to keep your pet warm.

Year-round, regular brushing is key - it helps remove loose fur and prevents matting, which is especially important for pets with long coats. Use grooming tools that suit your pet’s coat type, and don’t forget to trim their nails and clean their ears regularly to maintain good hygiene. By adjusting your grooming routine to match the weather, you’ll not only keep your pet healthy but also ensure they’re comfortable no matter the season.

How do I recognise and manage food allergies in my pet?

Food allergies in pets can manifest in various ways, including itching, skin rashes, hair loss, or digestive problems like vomiting and diarrhoea. If your pet shows any of these signs, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

One common approach to managing food allergies is through an elimination diet. This involves feeding your pet a specially designed hypoallergenic or novel-protein diet for about 8–10 weeks. During this time, it’s crucial to avoid giving any treats or foods outside the prescribed diet. If your pet’s symptoms improve, your veterinarian may recommend gradually reintroducing previous foods one at a time to pinpoint the specific allergen.

Your vet’s guidance is vital, as treatment might also include medications to ease symptoms. Ensuring your pet has a well-balanced diet tailored to their unique needs plays a significant role in maintaining their overall health and comfort.