Owning a pet is a massive responsibility. So massive many find themselves stressing over whether or not they’re doing a good enough job of providing for their dog or cat. Is my pet happy? Are they protected against common and uncommon diseases? Will I be able to provide for them in an emergency? These are all fantastic questions to ask and will help pave the way for happy year after happy year for your furry friend. Owners who have just adopted a puppy or are wondering how they can make the last few years for their older cat comfortable will both benefit from reading the list below.
Did You Know?
What can we learn about dogs, cats and horses in the United States? As of today it’s estimated two million people own horses, with many having several so they can keep one another company. Horses are highly social creatures and, just like us, can get lonely and depressed when isolated for long periods of time. It’s through learning more about pet psychology can owners better reach out and provide their cats and dogs the socialization, play and affection they need to feel their best.
Common Illnesses For Cats
The veterinary diagnostics market regularly sees millions of cat owners requesting services for minor infections and major illnesses. Heartworm is a very common disease that can make your cat sick, though it affects felines much differently than it does canines. A cat needs just one or two worms to make them ill. Common signs your cat may have a heartworm infection include extreme fatigue, coughing, reduced appetite and difficulty breathing. Cats who are understimulated also run the risk of developing
Keep a close eye on your cat’s appetite and hairballs. While the occasional upset stomach is perfectly normal, too much vomiting could be a sign of a deeper problem.
Common Illnesses For Dogs
Along a similar vein, dogs are highly susceptible to heartworm and should be vaccinated as soon as possible. Puppies who are a mere seven months of age can be started on heartworm prevention without a test (as it takes six months to test positive for an infection). This should be repeated over the following year to ensure your dog is growing healthy. While you can conduct a dog heartworm test at home, the best way to be safe is to hire a professional eye to oversee your pet on a routine basis.
Protect your dog from fleas and ticks with specialized shampoo and by checking their fur after every walk, particularly if you live near forest environments.
Common Illnesses For Horses
Horses have a very different relationship with disease, one that the veterinary diagnostics market has to devote an entire field of study toward to help owners keep their pets healthy and strong. Unlike cats or dogs, horses have been classified as ‘inapparent carriers’. This means they show very little to no outward abnormalities when they come down with an infection. Carried by horseflies, the EIAV (or equine infectious anemia virus) can kill a horse in a mere two to three weeks. This is one of many reasons a clinical diagnostics laboratory visit is essential.
Taking your horse to the vet a few times per year is generally sound, though more frequent visits can be necessary. The veterinary diagnostics market is always updating its information, so routine checking is a must.
When To Take Your Pet To The Vet
Should you take your pet to the vet now or wait until they show signs of infection? What preventative measures can you take? Contract lab services are an essential resource to give both you and your pet peace-of-mind when you suspect the worse, providing accurate assessments as well as advice on how to keep illness at bay. Vaccinations should be kept up-to-date and ongoing support, such as flea control and a healthy diet, will go a long way in ensuring a long and happy life for your pet.
Just like us, a happy horse, dog or cat should enjoy regular exercise, delicious food and plenty of love. The veterinary diagnostics market will make sure this is a reality for all families.