Having a pet is like having a baby at home whom you have to care for and be attentive to. One misjudgment from your end can put your pet in danger.
No, we are not talking about danger on open streets but in the house as well. This is why you must know some of the most common pet problems before you decide to get a pet.
Once you identify with the pet problem solution becomes easier. In this blog, we lay out some of the most common pet problems that most pet owners have dealt with.
Pet Problems: Challenges Faced By Most Pet Owners
Below are a few sets of challenges that your little companion has placed you in and some thoughtful strategies to overcome them.
Pet’s Urge to Runaway
If you have a new pet such as a dog, cat, or rabbit, it is more likely that they will tend to escape. This is because they are not yet familiar with you and the concept of friendship, so they have not developed strong attachments.
If your dog or cat tries to run away from home or dig tunnels to escape, it is important to be cautious. Instead of immediately assuming that you are a "bad owner", be prepared to face and overcome these challenges.
Furthermore, it is crucial to take extra precautions and establish practices that ensure their safety. Running away or escaping to unfamiliar places can put your pet at risk of encountering trouble or accidents.
Disrupting the Harmony at Home
Your furry friend can sometimes be your trusty sidekick, but prepare yourself for the mayhem they may cause while you're trying to work. They crave your attention and might sneak in for some quality time when you're preoccupied.
Among all the pets, dogs and cats tend to be the most troublesome! Adorable puppies tend to bark excessively when unfamiliar faces are present in your home. Cats, too, can be a source of annoyance if they're not in a happy mood.
Understanding your pets' psychology can be a bit challenging. However, engaging them in activities or entertaining games can keep them occupied and happier when you're not around.
Additionally, they may act out because they're feeling unwell. Pet owners often face such difficult situations.
Being Overweight
Did you know approximately 59. 5% of cats and 55. 8% of dogs are believed to be overweight.
This excess weight significantly raises the risk of pets developing severe health conditions such as arthritis and heart disease.
It is recommended to consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight for your pet and to discuss strategies on how you can assist your pet in achieving its target weight.
Pet Allergies
Allergies are a common issue that pet owners often encounter. Similar to humans, pets can also exhibit symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and dry or flaky skin.
If you observe any of these signs, your pet is likely to experience allergies. It is recommended to promptly seek veterinary assistance to prevent the situation from worsening.
Pet’s Facing Separation Anxiety
Similar to humans, animals and birds also experience the fear of being separated from their loved ones. Separation anxiety is a significant challenge that pet owners may face. If you're wondering why your pet constantly pulls on your clothes when you leave them alone, it could be due to separation anxiety.
While this behaviour can be bothersome at times, it's important to be prepared to handle their sad expression. Their eyes may even make you feel a sense of guilt. However, there are effective methods that can help alleviate separation anxiety in pets.
One option is to seek the assistance of a professional trainer who can help your pet cope with loneliness. Additionally, organizing short practice sessions where your pets can engage in solitary play can also be beneficial. Providing toys that divert their attention while you're away can also be helpful.
Parasites or Fleas
Parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites, can be a cause of concern for pet owners. If you observe your pet excessively scratching or shaking its head, it may be an indication of parasites.
Immediate action is necessary because these parasites can compromise your pet's overall health. Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases to pets and humans alike, while ear mites can cause painful infections in the ear canal.
To prevent parasitic infestations, it is recommended to use regular preventative treatments and keep your pet's environment clean and hygienic. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help detect any underlying health issues that may contribute to parasite problems.
Dental Issues
A large number of pets encounter issues related to their teeth and gums. To be more precise, periodontal disease can emerge as soon as they reach three years old. This condition can be extremely uncomfortable as the bacteria trigger inflammation and infections in the gums.
If you observe your pet favouring one side of its mouth while chewing or displaying a lack of interest in eating, dental problems may be present.
Surface Scratches and Chewing
Certain pets, such as parrots, tend to scratch or damage nearby clothing. Dogs and cats often leave unwanted scratches on surfaces like sofas, cushions, and mats. Additionally, if not properly trained, they may chew on various objects.
If you have acquired a furry companion, it is important to be aware of these behaviours. To prevent such activities, you can consider using a stop-chew spray. Another effective measure is providing them with appropriate chewable food items.
Poisoning
Numerous substances are safe for humans but can be harmful to animals. Examples include antifreeze, multivitamins, chocolate, pest poison, and more. Interestingly, animals may willingly consume these dangerous items.
It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the toxic substances that can harm your pet and promptly contact a veterinary emergency service if you suspect that your animal has ingested any poisonous substance.
FAQ: Pet Problems
What do pet owners worry about the most?
When pet owners are not with their pets, some of the main concerns they have include feelings of loneliness or boredom (52%), separation anxiety (44%), and ensuring that their pets have access to food and water (36%).
Why do people love pets?
Caring and forming a bond: taking care of another living being is an activity that satisfies us. It gives us a positive feeling and helps us cultivate a deeper sense of meaning.
Emotional support: having a pet close by can alleviate feelings of isolation. Frequently, we may interpret the actions of our pets in a manner that offers us comfort and solace.
Why do pets need care?
Having clean teeth and healthy gums is crucial for maintaining your pet's overall health. If you notice any indications or signs of illness in your furry companion, it is advisable to promptly bring them to a veterinarian or animal hospital to expedite their recovery.
Conclusion
Owning a pet comes with its fair share of challenges, and pet owners need to be aware of the potentially life-threatening problems that can arise. From common issues like obesity and dental problems to more serious conditions like heart disease and cancer, various health concerns can impact our furry friends.
However, the good news is that there are solutions available to help address these problems. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, routine veterinary check-ups, and proper dental care are just a few ways we can keep our pets healthy and happy.
By staying informed and proactive, we can ensure that our beloved companions live long and fulfilling lives. So let's take the necessary steps to understand our pet's specific needs and provide them with the care they deserve.
