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2. Give Him a Glossy Coat
A healthy coat comes from both good nutrition and grooming. Your pet’s coat should look sleek and glossy and feel clean and dry. Depending on lifestyle, dogs should be brushed about every other day. Most cats self-groom. However, cats with longer hair might need to be brushed as often as every day. Nutrition is also an important player in the health of your pet’s coat, because the coat is composed almost entirely of protein. Without enough protein, your pet’s coat can get dry or brittle.
3. Help Him Feel Fit
Pampering your pet isn’t all about grooming and treats. Fitness is important to your pet’s weight, happiness and vitality. When increasing the level of activity, it’s important to do so gradually to prevent injury. Consult your vet before making any drastic changes to your pet’s routine. In general, dogs need longer sessions of exercise than cats. Dogs benefit from walks or playing fetch. Surprisingly, cats can be taught to fetch, too. They also can be encouraged to play using feather toys, balls, flashlight beams or crinkled paper.
4. Polish His Pearly Whites
Good dental care can add years to your pet’s life. Teeth and gum issues can cause systemic health problems, so it’s important to examine them regularly. For dogs, long-lasting chews, raw beef-marrow bones or raw carrots can help massage gums and remove tartar. Both cats and dogs benefit from regular brushings with special pet toothbrushes and toothpaste. Visit your vet for more information and tips to help keep your pet’s teeth strong and healthy.
5. Don’t Forget His Paws
Both dogs and cats should have their nails trimmed every six to eight weeks. Nails should be kept short (but not too short!), because long nails can lead to discomfort and bone/joint problems. Visit your vet to learn how to properly trim your specific pet’s nails. If you do it at home, use nail clippers designed just for dogs or cats. Make it a positive experience; speak in a calm voice, give praise and treats, and make it fun.
Spend some quality time with your pet, and save where it matters the most!
Do you know what to look for in a healthy cat? Learn the 10 traits.
