Seven Key Criteria for Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Happy

Pets have a few basic needs that if you get right, there is little more you should need to do to ensure they stay healthy and happy.

Most four-legged friends don’t ask for much and are mostly just looking for the affection of a loving owner.

To check you are covering the pet care essentials, here’s a rundown of the seven key criteria you should be providing for your furry friend.

Diet

Just like humans, a healthy, balanced diet is essential for good animal health, too.

The type of nutrition a pet needs will depend on, for example, their age, breed, and state of health. Luckily, there are foods on the market which can help you make the best choice for your pet.

To help you understand what you should be looking for, read this awesome blog post on how to do choosing right pet food and learn what nutrition the best products should include.

Grooming

Keeping your pet’s fur brushed and clean is essential for their health and happiness. A dirty, matted coat could make your pet sore and irritated, as well as harboring all sorts of unpleasant bugs and bacteria. 

In addition to this, their claws should be kept neat and tidy, and eyes and ears should be clean, too. 

Dental care

Animals can certainly suffer with poor dental hygiene, so it is important to keep their teeth and gums nice and clean. 

You can find a variety of pet toothbrushes and toothpastes to choose from, along with toys and treats specially shaped to give your pet’s teeth a good scrub while they are having a chew.

Not only will it keep their teeth in good condition, but will reduce the risk of smelly breath, too.

Entertainment

You will need to work out exactly what games and activities entertain your pet the most as it is necessary to find ways to stave off boredom. 

Dogs, for example, enjoy a good walk and at home a variety of toys will also help to keep them occupied. 

Cats too, will have fun with a selection of toys and a scratching post. They also enjoy watching the world go by through the window so perhaps place a cozy cat bed in a favorite window spot so they can get comfy while they snoop. 

Vaccinations

Your vet will advise you exactly what vaccinations your pet needs, but as a responsible pet owner you must ensure these are kept up to date. 

Parasite prevention

It’s cruel not to properly protect your pet against parasites such as fleas, ticks, and worms. They can be an extremely uncomfortable condition to have to endure and can also have a detrimental effect on an animal’s health if left untreated.

Again, speak to your pet’s vet for advice on treatments and preventative measures. 

Attention

People and animals alike will suffer when they are starved of attention.

Being left alone for long periods or not spending time going for walks, getting petted, or playing games can affect an animal’s mental wellbeing—so make sure you spend time every day, bonding with your pet.