The Correlated Fate of Our Pets Health and Our Own, Part II
So, as we talked about in the first part of this chat on the correlation between the health of our pets and our own, the average lifespan of your dog or cat is just 10-13 years?
But it can be much higher! My mission here on the Family Edition side of The Pawsitive Pathfinder is to help you and your furry friends defy the current odds, and even redefine the norm.
Together, we can begin to turn the grim news of lives dimmed and cut short by unwellness and disease around, and create a new destiny of vibrant health and increased longevity. For them, and for us, too.
Like no other time before in history, we are equally connected in both advances in our health and wellbeing and simultaneously our decline in health and wellbeing, as well.
And while many pets live what conventional wisdom would view as long, healthy lives- with the average life expectancy increasing steadily over the past few decades due mainly to veterinary medical innovations- many are still dying much sooner than they should. And all too often of unnatural causes.
The rise in chronic diseases in dogs and cats is alarming, and increasing exponentially, year after year. What’s more, these diseases can be both treated, and even prevented all together, with nutrition, movement, connection, and mental stimulation.
Chronic disease and disability are not inevitable outcomes for an aging pet.
Incidentally, all of the above applies to you and me as their human counterparts, too.
And it’s my opinion that the way we eat, don’t move, isolate, work too much, and zone out when we’re home, is exactly why our best friends are suffering chronic diseases and disabilities like never before. We are, too, and our fates are intrinsically tied together.
SO what’s the solution?
In the last issue, we went over a handful of the biggest health challenges facing our beloved companions. Now, let’s talk about easy and simple ways you can counter the effects of these issues, and even stave them off entirely.
1. Obesity
Obesity is a significant health problem for pets, leading to a shorter lifespan and increasing the risk of a whole host of ruff conditions.
Just as in humans, pet obesity is often due to lack of exercise and overfeeding. …It's easy to spoil our beloved companions with extra treats, but just like us, too much of a good thing is rarely best.
Managing your pet’s diet and ensuring regular exercise can prevent obesity and actively maintain their overall health.
With these evidence-based strategies, you can lick obesity in your dogs and cats with prevention and management:
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Proper Nutrition
- Feed a high-quality, species-appropriate diet that is formulated to meet their nutritional needs.
- Avoid overfeeding and stick to recommended serving sizes.
- Limit treats and scraps off your plate, as these can be high in calories and play havoc with their diet.
- Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times.
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Portion Control
- Measure out meals rather than use a free-feeding method.
- Use a food measuring cup or scale to control how much they eat.
- Split their daily food allocation into a couple smaller meals.
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Exercise and Enrichment
- Make time and space for your doggos to get regular physical activity, such as walks, fetch, and playtime with toys, as well as structured exercise -like agility training, search games, and social time with other dogs.
- Provide indoor cats with toys, scratching posts, and opportunities for play and hunting behavior.
- Encourage natural behaviors like climbing, jumping, and foraging to keep cats active.
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Veterinary Care
- Be sure to set up regular wellness exams so your veterinarian can monitor your furry friend’s weight.
- Work with your vet to develop an appropriate weight management plan, when needed.
- Discuss medications or supplements that may aid in weight loss or management, if appropriate.
As your beloved companion’s guardian, educating yourself about the health risks of pet obesity, the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, setting weight loss goals, when necessary- and tracking progress, seeking professional advice from veterinarians and pet nutritionists, and involving all pack family members in the journey can ensure pawsitive practices over a lifetime.
2. Dental Hygiene
Dental disease is prevalent in pets, with over 80% of dogs over the age of 3 and between 50-90% of cats over 4 suffering from it.
Dental problems in our pets can lead to more than just bad breath; they can cause infections that may affect major organs.
Maintaining good dental health is essential for the overall wellbeing of your dogs and cats. Here are some key ways you can combat dental decay and disease in your furry companions:
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Dental Hygiene Routines
- Brush your furry kid’s teeth regularly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Starting this routine when they are young gets them - and you- used to this activity.
- Make dental chews, treats, or toys that help remove plaque and tartar buildup part of your best friend’s routine.
- Consider using dental wipes or sprays to help reduce bacteria in their mouth.
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Veterinary Dental Cleanings
- Schedule regular professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian, (typically once or twice a year).
- These cleanings allow the vet to remove built-up tartar and plaque, and keep on top of any dental issues early.
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Diet and Hydration
- Feed your fluffy companions a high-quality, dental-friendly pet food that helps reduce plaque and tartar formation.
- Ensure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times to encourage drinking, and maintain oral hydration.
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Oral Health Monitoring
- Be sure to look into your pet's mouth regularly and inspect for signs of dental disease, such as red/swollen gums, bad breath, or difficulty eating.
- Report any changes or concerns to your veterinarian right away.
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Preventive Care
- Discuss dental health supplements or rinses with your vet; they can help support strong teeth and gums.
- Consider dental sealants or other preventive measures, especially for pets predisposed to dental issues.
When you learn about common dental problems and how to spot the early warning signs, get the whole family involved in your furry friend’s dental care routine, and hit your veterinary team up for the best dental care approaches for your pet, you keep those pearly whites healthy and prevent more serious issues.
3. Allergies
Pets can suffer from allergies to food, pollen, mold, dust mites, and fleas, leading to symptoms like itching, rashes, hair loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and even changes in behavior. This all equals a significant decrease in quality of life.
Just like us humans, our furry friends suffer from reacting to everything from environmental elements to specific foods in their diets. This is an important area for pet parents to improve the health and wellbeing of their furry companions. Here are some key ways you can combat allergies in your furry kidz:
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Identify and Avoid Allergens
- Work with your pet care professional to identify the specific allergens affecting your furry friend.
- Eliminate or minimize your pet's exposure to known allergens in the home environment, such as using HEPA air filters, frequent vacuuming, and washing bedding in hot water.
- Avoid exposing your best friend to triggering allergens outdoors by limiting time spent in high-pollen areas or during peak allergy seasons.
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Dietary Modifications
- Switch to a high-quality, hypoallergenic pet food formulated without common allergens.
- Supplement your best friend's diet with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support skin health.
- Consult your veterinarian about food trials or elimination diets to pinpoint food allergies.
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Topical Treatments
- Use medicated shampoos, conditioners, or sprays prescribed by your veterinarian to soothe itchy, inflamed skin.
- Apply anti-itch creams or ointments to hot spots or areas of severe irritation.
- Consider regular bathing and grooming to remove pollen, dander, and other allergens from your pet's coat.
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Oral Medications
- Work with your pet care professional to determine if antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications can help manage your furry friend’s allergy symptoms.
- Discuss the potential risks and benefits of these treatments, as well as any necessary monitoring.
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Immunotherapy
- For persistent or severe allergies, your veterinarian may recommend allergy shots or sublingual (under the tongue) immunotherapy.
- These treatments can work by gradually desensitizing your companion’s immune system to the offending allergens.
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Environmental Management
- Use HEPA air filters, frequently vacuum and dust your home, and wash your pet's bedding in hot water to reduce allergens.
- Consider using a dehumidifier to control dust mites, especially in high-humidity areas.
- Avoid using harsh cleaning products that may further irritate your furry friend’s skin.
As a parent of furry kidz, identifying and avoiding allergens is key, as well as managing these allergies when they do arise, to make a huge difference in your companion’s comfort and health.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis isn't just a human ailment; Our furry friends can get stiff and sore too, especially as they get older. And just like us, it can significantly impact your pet's quality of life.
Managing arthritis in cats and dogs is an important component of helping them live their best- and longest- life! Here are some key ways you can combat arthritis in your feline and canine companions:
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Weight Management
- Maintain your pet's ideal body weight through a balanced, species-appropriate diet and regular exercise.
- Extra weight can put additional strain on the joints, exacerbating arthritis symptoms.
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Exercise and Activity Modification
- Encourage low-impact exercise like short, frequent walks, swimming, or controlled playtime.
- Avoid high-impact activities that could further damage your buddy's joints.
- Provide soft, cushioned surfaces for your furry kid to rest and sleep on.
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Joint Supplements
- Discuss joint health supplements, such as those containing glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids, with your veterinarian.
- These supplements can help support joint function and reduce inflammation.
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Medication Management
- Work closely with your pet care professional to determine if anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or other medications are appropriate to manage your pet's arthritis symptoms.
- Carefully follow dosage instructions and watch your furry friend for any expression of side effects.
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Assistive Devices
- Consider using orthopedic pet beds, ramps, or stairs to help your fluffy friend navigate your home more easily.
- In some cases, braces, splints, or other mobility aids may be recommended by your veterinarian.
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Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Consult a veterinary physical therapist or rehabilitation specialist to develop a tailored exercise and therapy plan.
- Treatments like hydrotherapy, massage, and targeted strengthening exercises can help improve joint function and mobility.
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Environmental Adaptations
- Ensure your environment at home is arthritis-friendly, with smooth, non-slip flooring and minimal obstacles.
- Provide raised food and water bowls to reduce strain on your pet's neck and back.
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Weight-Assisted Mobility Aids
- For pets with advanced arthritis, consider using a harness or sling to help support their weight and mobility.
- This can enable your companion to continue enjoying gentle exercise and activity.
Early diagnosis and management with the right diet, exercise, and medication is how, as your companion's guardian, you can help your beloved companions maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.
5. Cancer
Cancer is a leading cause of death in older pets, with nearly 50% of pups over 10 years old affected. Cancers in kitties, though less common, are often more aggressive.
Addressing cancer in pets when it does express itself requires a comprehensive approach. Here are some key ways you can help combat cancer in your kitties and pups:
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Preventive Veterinary Care
- Ensure your pet receives regular veterinary checkups and cancer screening exams.
- Early detection is crucial, as it allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Work closely with your pet care provider to establish a proactive preventive care plan.
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Dietary Considerations
- Consult your veterinarian about a cancer-fighting diet, which can include high-quality proteins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
- Avoid processed foods, preservatives, and other potential carcinogens.
- Consider supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation.
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Environmental Modifications
- Minimize your furry friend’s exposure to known carcinogens, such as secondhand smoke, pesticides, and household chemicals.
- Ensure your home’s environment is clean, well-ventilated, and free of potential toxins.
- Provide a safe, stress-free living space that supports your beloved companion’s overall health.
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Exercise and Weight Management
- Maintain your pet's optimal body weight through a balanced diet and regular, low-impact exercise.
- Obesity has been linked to increased cancer risk in pets.
- Make time and space for activities that promote cardiovascular health and muscle tone.
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Early Detection and Screening
- Work with your veterinarian to establish a proactive cancer screening schedule, including routine blood work, imaging, and physical examinations.
- Be vigilant for any changes in your best friend’s appearance, behavior, or overall well-being, and report them to your pet care provider promptly.
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Prompt Treatment Interventions
- If cancer is detected, collaborate with your veterinary oncology team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Their plan may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination.
- There are also many alternative therapies and holistic approaches, like acupuncture and nutrient-specific diet plans, to complement the traditional plan your veterinarian provides.
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Palliative and Supportive Care
- For pets with advanced or terminal cancer, provide compassionate palliative care to manage pain, maintain quality of life, and ensure your furry kid’s comfort.
- This may involve pain medication, dietary modifications, and, as mentioned above, alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage.
This holistic approach of regular vet visits can lead to prevention, early detection, and effective treatment allows you to give your best friend their best chance at a truly healthy, vibrant, long life.
Conscious lifestyle choices made for your furry friends throughout their lives are the biggest determinant of how long they’ll be a part of your life, and how healthy that lifetime is for them.
Ultimately, the lifespan and healthspan of your four-legged kidz comes down to four things:
- Feeding them less
- Feeding them more fresh food
- Letting them move more
- Getting them moving more often
And of course, regular wellness checks with your beloved companion’s pet care provider, to catch any pesky problems early.
In the next Family Edition issue, we'll talk about how having furry friends in our lives helps keep us vibrant and healthy, longer.
Thanks for reading this issue of The Pawsitive Pathfinder: Family Edition. If there are other topics you'd like to talk about, or have thoughts you'd like to share, please hit REPLY on this email and let me know. 🤓
Until next time...
