Preventive Health Tips for Dogs and Cats That Can Save Money

For many pet parents, a dog or cat isn't just another pet—they're a beloved member of the family. And keeping family members happy, healthy, and thriving is a top priority. So, what can you do to help your pet live a long, pain-free life? 

Preventative pet care is a term for a multipronged approach to maintaining your dog or cat's overall health and wellness in the hopes of minimizing future medical issues. Learn more about what this means for your pet and how to use this approach at home—not only to save money in the long run but also to keep your furry pal by your side for as long as possible.

Why Preventive Care Matters for Pets

Think of preventative care for pets like your own preventative care. Taking care of your body means flossing and brushing daily to prevent cavities and dental issues, maintaining proper hygiene to prevent infections, getting annual checkups to catch issues before they become major problems, and more. You do this to maintain your health and wellness. The same preventative care approach should be applied to your pet, too. 

Taking routine care steps to ensure the health of your dog or cat is important to prevent disease, treat issues early, protect your budget, and keep your furry pal healthy for as long as possible.  

Cost-Saving Benefits of Preventive Pet Care

While the health of your pet likely takes precedence over any related costs, the truth is that pet care can be expensive—especially if larger medical issues arise. From the kibble they eat to the vaccinations they need and even their annual vet visits, the prices can add up. Dog and cat ownership costs can each reach about $1,000 per year.

While some expenses are unavoidable, some, like certain medical issues, can be prevented or nipped in the bud before they become large problems with ballooning costs. This is why preventative pet care is essential. You can minimize costs of future medical care—as well as potential stress and heartache—by performing routine grooming, conducting physical at-home checks, and getting them seen by a vet on a regular basis.

Preventive Health Tips for Dogs

Incorporate these health and wellness tips into your daily, weekly, or yearly care for your dog.

• Feed them the right kibble. Your vet should recommend the kibble that will work best for your pet's dietary needs. Follow your vet's feeding guidelines to ensure that your dog gets the nutrients they need at the right frequency throughout the day.

• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations. Even after receiving their initial core vaccinations, your pup still needs regular booster shots for diseases like canine distemper virus and rabies. Make sure that they also get non-core vaccinations if your vet recommends them.

• Give them parasite medications. Medications for heartworm, fleas, and ticks can help your pup defend against parasites. For instance, the American Heartworm Association says that puppies should be started on heartworm prevention before they turn 8 weeks old. Work with your vet to determine the right timeline and dosing frequency for parasite meds.

• Clean their teeth. Brushing your dog's teeth twice a day is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. While you do this, check their gums for redness or swelling, discolored teeth, teeth with lots of buildup, and even bad breath. If you notice any of these, it's time for a professional cleaning or perhaps a vet visit.

• Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help prevent obesity in dogs and keep their bones and muscles strong. Not every pup requires the same amount of exercise—it depends on age, health, and breed. Follow your vet's recommendations for how often to exercise your dog and for how long.

• Groom your dog. On a regular basis, brush your dog's coat, check for mats, clip their nails, give them a bath, and check their ears. Be sure to consult your vet for grooming tips specific to your pup, as every dog and breed may have different needs. 

• Outfit them with the right gear. Some climates require extra care for your dog, such as providing booties to protect paws from hot or cold pavement. And some breeds, like hairless dogs, require pet-safe sunscreen or clothing before going outside. 

• Schedule regular vet checkups. In addition to your at-home routine, seeing the vet for annual checkups is the best way to keep your dog healthy. Your vet will screen for health issues and conduct a full head-to-tail exam, helping to catch any potential problems early.

Preventive Health Tips for Cats

Keep your furry feline happy and healthy with these best practices for preventative care.

• Nourish them. Your cat needs dry and wet cat food that fulfills their unique dietary requirements, so be sure to speak with your vet about what their body needs. 

• Vaccinate. Cats typically need five core vaccines, but there are also some non-core shots your vet might recommend to boost their immunity and prevent certain infections. Follow your vet's guidelines.

• Use heartworm and flea medications. Cats can get heartworm and fleas, too, which is why medications to prevent parasitic infections are crucial. 

• Brush their teeth. Daily brushing is recommended but even aiming for two to three times per week should be okay. Cleaning your cat's teeth can safeguard against periodontal disease, tooth decay, and gum disease. 

• Exercise regularly. There are several ways to exercise your cat, from training it to go on walks to building a cat gym or using remote-controlled toys. Giving your kitty opportunities to get exercise can help keep their weight within a healthy range and provide mental stimulation.

• Give them a grooming sesh. On a regular basis, trim their nails, check their ears (especially for cats with folded ears), and brush and inspect their coats, which can not only remove dirt and debris but also keep their skin healthy by redistributing oils. Be sure to remove tangles and mats and pay attention to any bumps or lumps on their skin.

• Visit the vet for routine care. At-home preventative care complements, but doesn't replace, vet visits. It's important to take your cat for a checkup every year so that the veterinarian can conduct a full physical exam and check for any medical issues.

When Preventive Care Isn’t Enough (Emergencies Happen)

No pet parent wants to consider a scenario in which their pet needs emergency care—but sometimes it happens. Whether your pet got into some mischief and was hurt or they contracted a new illness, they'll likely need immediate treatment. And that's where pet insurance enters the picture. 

Preventative care is important for maintaining your pet's health day in and day out, but it won't cover emergencies, as these are unexpected. Pet insurance provides this type of coverage, for things like new illnesses and injuries, to help your dog or cat get the care they need (all while helping to protect your budget from unexpected costs). Pet insurance policies, like those from Trupanion, complement preventative care, helping pet parents provide comprehensive year-round care for their beloved furry companions. 

Sources:

3 Reasons Pet Wellness Care Matters More Than You Think. Hanover Vet

Why Routine Preventative Care Is Essential. Animal Humane Society

Money Tips for Caring Pet Owners. AVMA

Tips for Preventative Pet Care. Cainhoy Vet

Heartworm Basics. American Heartworm Society

Brushing Teeth in Dogs. VCA Hospitals

Pet Dental Care. AVMA

Training Tips: Grooming at Home. San Diego Humane Society