Considering Raw Food For Your Pet

We all have heard the phrase ‘You are what you eat’. It is an indisputable fact that to live a healthy and happy life we need to eat good food. Every single cell in our body, including from the skin and hair to the muscles, bones and all the systems, is built on the nutrients from the diet that we consume. Our bodies are continually repairing, healing, and recreating themselves, even if we don’t realize it. Similarly, the health of dogs, cats or any other pets depends on the foods we give them to eat.

Some people in Australia believe that raw food is better than commercial processed food because key nutrients are reduced in processed food after going through the cooking process. Additionally, processed foods contain colorants, preservatives which may cause adverse reactions such as food allergies in your pet. Obesity is a big problem in modern dogs, and some dog owners find it hard to control their dog’s weight when feeding commercial food. So, if you are induced to feed your pet a raw diet, it is necessary to approach this decision wisely considering that your pet entirely depends on you for its nutritional requirements.

WHAT IS RAW FOOD?

The general idea of raw food is providing your animal a diet similar to what their wild ancestors ate. Raw foods can be divided into two categories: Homemade raw diets and commercial raw diets that include,

• Raw muscle meat
• Bones, either whole or ground
• Raw eggs
• Organ meats, such as liver and kidneys
• Vegetables and fruits.

BENEFITS:

If you have decided to feed your pet with raw food diets, it may help you achieve many benefits such as,

• Improved immunity and overall health
• Healthier skin and coat
• Fresher breath and cleaner teeth
• Better digestion and smaller poops with lesser odor
• No consumption of excess grains and artificial preservatives.

DRAWBACKS:

Raw pet food does not present several issues as compared to the processed food. However, there are certain difficulties that you want to consider before taking the decision,

• Substantial cost and time
• Imbalance of dietary nutrients
• Widely spread bacteria that can cause illness
• Risk of an injury caused by consuming bones, including broken teeth

PREPARING RAW FOOD FOR YOUR PET:

Raw pet food is available commercially as well that comes in the form of frozen logs, and it must be defrosted before giving to your pet. You can also feed your pet dog home-made raw food created from scratch. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind, regardless of which method you use.

Obtaining High-Quality Ingredients

The variety and grade of components used in raw frozen food preparations varies, and the ingredient list provided on the product label can give you limited information. You can contact the manufacturer if you want to understand more about the composition. Raw diets can also be made at home using ingredients from the grocery store or farmers market. The real advantage of preparing raw food for your pet at home is you can chose quality and quantity of the ingredients.

Maintain the Right Balance

There are several illnesses caused in cats and dogs due to the nutritional deficiencies. Both home-made and commercial raw foods sometimes fail to maintain the right balance and miss the vital nutrients your pet needs. For example, parts of chicken we feed to our pet may not include vitamins, fibre and minerals that our pet badly requires. Therefore, your pet’s diet needs to be cautiously balanced that should offer a proper nourishment to your pet. Food that offers a great deal of varieties is considered to be the best as it offers more trace vitamins and minerals to your pet.

Bones or No Bones

Consumption of bones provides extra calcium and phosphorous if included in your dog’s raw food diet. It also prevents tartar buildup and maintains your dog’s dental health. On the other hand, the inclusion of bones in your pet’s diet presents a great risk too. Bones can cause the obstruction of the esophagus. Your dog may suffer from constipation because of too many bone fragments in the bowel.

Prevent Bacterial Toxicity

Bacteria including Salmonella and E. coli often contaminate raw meat and raw meat-based foods, causing illness. Commercially produced raw food diets carry a danger of infection as their processing plants have a significant risk of contamination. It is worth knowing that freezing the meat can lower the present quantity of bacteria but cannot eliminate them completely.

Consider Food Safety

To avoid the possibility of contamination, pet owners should always obtain all the ingredients from a safe and reliable source when preparing the home-made raw food for their pets. This will ensure the safety of the diet you wish to feed your animal and help you achieve their optimum health.

HYGIENE AND HANDLING OF RAW FOOD:

Maintaining a good hygiene is even more crucial when handling raw food of your beloved animal companion. Here is what you can do to maintain the safety and hygiene of the food:

• Check the condition of the product package and look whether there are any visible signs of damage.
• Clean your hands with water and soap or any other disinfectant after getting in contact with your pet or their food and packaging.
• Wash all the surfaces and utensils which have been in contact with the pet’s food promptly after the use.
• Discard the left-over food as soon as your pet has finished having it.
• Clean and sterilize your pet’s feeding area right after he/she finishes it.

DISCUSS WITH THE INDUSTRY EXPERT: Nutritional requirement differs with every pet and their relative breed. It is necessary to make sure that the diet you are going to feed your pet is sufficiently balanced as per their requirement. Therefore, before coming to a conclusion on whether you should provide your pet with a raw food diet, talk to your veterinary nutritionist. Discuss the risks and benefits of feeding your pet raw food. Once your vet approves your decision, ask about the suitable recipe you need to follow to maintain the nutritional balance for your beloved companion.

Pet Dental Health Month | Simple Ways To Prevent Dental Diseases In Dogs | DiscountPetCare

To grow awareness regarding pet dental health issues, Pet Dental Health Month, is observed August every year to make sure you shun all your laziness and maintain proper oral hygiene of your pet Dental Health. Here we Provide simple ways to prevent Dental Diseases in Dogs.

Pet Dental Health Month: Simple Ways To Prevent Dental Diseases In Dogs

Every pet-parent gives their best to maintain their pup’s overall health. However, at times, while focusing on protecting the pet from major diseases, pet-parents might overlook to examine and care about small yet very significant areas of a dog’s body. You cannot refute the fact that procrastination of some serious chores from your dog’s grooming regimen like cleaning his mouth regularly or paying vet visits for dental check-up has lead to such implications.

Therefore, to grow awareness regarding pet dental health issues, Pet Dental Health Month, is observed August every year to make sure you shun all your laziness and maintain proper oral hygiene of your pet.

Dogs may generally suffer from many dental diseases if left untreated, which includes:

• Bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Infections that spread to other body areas
• Painful mouth
• Bad breath
• Loss of appetite

However, there is a very simple solution to protect your pooch from pet dental diseases. Let us now look at some of the key areas that can aid in avoiding dental disease in pets

Simple Ways To Prevent Pet Dental Diseases:

1.Daily Brushing For Pets

It is very important to brush your pet’s teeth on a daily basis in order to maintain his oral health. It requires practice and patience by the pet owners, but daily brushing can easily keep the plaque away from the pet’s mouth. Get Pet Dent Toothbrush and Pet Dent Toothpaste that will smoothly scrub the surfaces of your pet’s teeth. Ensure to never use human toothpaste or brush for your pooch.

2.Procure Dental Products

There are online pet stores that sell a wide array of pet products at highly affordable prices that are good for dental health of the pets. While there are certain products that are better than others are, it is highly recommended that you purchase a product that has been approved to be safe to use for pets only.

3.Opting For A Good Pet Food

It has been researched and found that dry kibble aids in discouraging plaque build-up than wet or freeze dried food. There are various prescription diets like Hill’s Prescription Diet that can aid in getting rid of plaque as and when your pet chews the food. However, before giving any food to your pet ensure to ask your veterinarian to suggest the best dental food for your furry pal.

4.Regular Dental Checkup

It is important to take your pet to a veterinarian for a regular dental checkup to ensure that their mouth is in ideal condition. Apart from dental disease, pets can suffer from other problems too, including: tooth resorption, mouth cancers, or broken teeth. Your vet is the best person to decide the frequency of teeth cleaning as per the personalized needs of your pet. If there is a major dental problem with your pet, it would require a thorough oral exam and cleaning under anesthesia including dental radiographs to fully evaluate each tooth.

This pet dental health month is your chance to show that you care for your furry pal by taking care of their oral needs so that you could hug your pet and never get a bad smell. And, to make your part easier, Discountpetcareau provides a wide-range of pet dental care products and pet food that highly contributes in maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene at super affordable rates. So, all you need to do is celebrate your furry pal’s oral health with the best products and your lots of love. Happy Parenting!

Frontline Flea Spray: Wise Choice or Worth a Royal Ignore

Fleas are parasites that suck blood from the bodies of pets like cats and dogs after jumping onto their bodies. This results in the pet developing a tendency to scratch and itch intensely, which leads to hair loss along with anaemia due to excessive blood loss. Tapeworm infestation and flea allergy dermatitis – an unpleasant skin issue mainly caused due to an allergy to flea saliva, are both caused by fleas. The little vermin’s can multiply at a lightning pace with a single female flea capable of laying up to 50 eggs in a single day.

Considering the gravity of the situation, it was deemed necessary to design products which were handy, budget-friendly, effective and reliable. One of the products which were developed with the intention of achieving these results is: Frontline Flea Spray.

About the Product:

It was designed with the objective of ensuring complete relief from any fleas, ticks through application of the liquid on different parts of the body.  The spray provides relief from 100% fleas existing on the body within a period of 24 hours. It even continues killing fleas for a period of one month ensuring long-lasting, effective control. At the same time, it can be utilised for application only on dogs and cats, who are above 8 years of age. Frontline Spray For Dogs and Cats is a product, which is considered a non-prescription, OTC (Over the Counter) product.

Ingredients:  

Frontline spray contains an active ingredient in the form of Fipronil. It is an insecticide which directly disrupts the nervous system of the insect ensuring relief from fleas. The ingredient ensures effectiveness against other diseases like American dog tick, deer ticks as well.

Method of Application:

The pet parent sprays the flea solution on the left side, right side of the body, back &tail, head& face, chest, belly & under the inside legs after wearing a safe pair of gloves. A nozzle is further used for applying an equal number of spray pumps at the 5 areas in calculated doses. The liquid can further be sprayed on the gloves and applied liberally on different areas of the body for ensuring total coverage. The spray should be reapplied after a period of 30 days. The pet can even bathe or swim after 24 hours post the application of the spray.

Benefits: 

•     It is effective against tick, flea infestations and helps control sacroptic mange infestations as well.
•     The spray can be utilized without any element of fear on puppies or kittens that are 8 weeks old or even older.
•     Results are visible at an electrifying pace.
•     Adult fleas are killed before they get a chance to lay eggs which helps avoid reinfestation. 

Points to be Careful About:

•     A vet should be consulted before utilisation of the spray on medicated pets, pregnant, nursing or aged pets.
•     Household gloves should be used before application of the spray at any cost.
•     There may be certain side effects following the use of the product for pets. A vet should be consulted if the signs worsen steadily.
•     The spray is flammable in nature and should be kept away from any heat at any cost.
•     It is extremely harmful for humans and accidental consumption of the liquid should be addressed at the earliest by visiting a vet. 

Customer Viewpoint: 

• Frontline spray has enjoyed praise from customers because of its effectiveness, long-term impact, reasonable pricing and user-friendly properties. The product also enjoys a 5-star rating in majority of the polls conducted. However, some customers have raised concerns over the side-effects faced by their pets after utilising the product. We would advise pet owners to consider the allergies of their pets towards certain chemicals before shopping. Utilising a glove and practicing caution should be enough for avoiding any hazards.

Frontline Flea Spray is an effective product and should be certainly purchased for getting rid of the fleas.

Advocate & Seresto – Unique Treatments with NO FLEA BITE Strategy

Fleas are those nasty creatures that cause a lot more harm than just making your pet uncomfortable with itchiness. A proper knowledge and effective tools can support you to get a hike on fleas in order to eliminate them. Fair information about fleas, can help you better understand these pesky parasites.

An adult flea has the capacity to stick to one place on your dog for up to 3 hours, biting and feeding on your dog’s blood

These parasites are the vector of various diseases and thus, can transmit diseases and other parasites, such as tapeworms

Untreated infestations can result in anemia from the blood loss in your pet

Flea Allergy Dermatitis is another common infection that most pets suffer

Female fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day

Immune to weather conditions, their life cycle is flexible as they can delay their life cycle stages until the conditions are favorable

The ultimate way to control fleas is to prevent an infestation from occurring. Products like Advocate and Seresto provides high level of efficacy in controlling flea infestations. At Discountpetcare.com.au, we stock Advocate and Seresto, which kill fleas without a need for them to bite your dog. If you’re not sure which product is best for your pet, you can find more information below and ask us during your next visit!

Advocate – A Trojan Warrior that fights fleas and worms

Advocate for Dog is a broad spectrum treatment as it protects dogs and cats from fleas, heartworm and intestinal nematode worms. The monthly spot-on preventive acts quickly by eliminating fleas when they come into contact with your pet’s hair and skin, stopping biting in 3-5 minutes and killing reinfesting fleas within 1 hour. Unlike other treatments that require fleas to bite in order to eliminate them, Advocate does not require any flea to bite your pet for treatment. So to get these fleas removed, use Advocate all year round.

Seresto – Get combined tick and flea protection!

It’s a well known fact that ticks can not only cause fatal paralysis but they can potentially transmit serious blood-borne infections. For long-lasting tick and flea protection for your dog, a Seresto collar Dog is your solution. It provides 4 months of tick and flea protection for your dog, and these parasites are killed on contact – without needing to bite first.

Ringworm in Dogs Symptoms, Causes and Treatment | DiscountPetCare

Understand in-depth information about ringworm symptoms, causes, and treatment in dogs. Here’s all you need to know about ringworms in dogs.

Dog Ear Infections: Treatment, Causes and Prevention

Ear infections in dogs are frequent and almost all canines will have this painful ailment at some point in their lives. Scratching and rubbing at the ear(s), as well as head shaking, are common symptoms. You may also detect an unusual odor coming from the ear, as well as redness or swelling.

The majority of adult ear infections are caused by bacteria and yeast; however, ear mites are a prevalent culprit in puppies. Your veterinarian will collect a sample from the infected ear(s) and examine it under a microscope to determine if germs are present.

Dogs are prominent for hiding their pain. And your precious pup may suffer from an ear infection for several weeks before you realize it. Excessive moisture, breed predisposition, food allergies and foreign objects are some of the reasons for ear infections in dogs. Thus, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to discover the cause of your pet’s ear infection.

Most ear infections can be avoided or reduced by regularly monitoring your pet’s ears. We have some useful information on dog ear infections, including treatment, causes and prevention. Read on!

Dog Ear Infection Treatment:

The ear will be painful as a result of the ear infection; therefore you should clean it with a gentle cleanser such as PAW GENTLE EAR CLEANER AND ILIUM EAR DROP for effective treatment. Filling the ear canal with a cleaning solution, placing an appropriate-sized cotton ball in the ear canal entrance and gently massaging the ear at the base is an excellent approach to clean the ear. The cotton ball serves a number of purposes. It works as a cover to allow fluid to flow back and forth in the canal, absorbs the surplus solution and holds onto debris as it rises, letting you know what is going on below in the ear canal. You can clean the ear multiple times as long as your dog tolerates it and the cotton ball comes out quite clean.

Pet Product Options for Ear Cleaner and Ear Infection Prevention:

EPI-OTIC EAR AND SKIN CLEANSER FOR DOGS/CATS

Epi-Otic is a modern dog and cat skin and ear cleaner. The antibacterial solution can be used to treat and prevent a variety of infections. Due to the superior technology, it is not only utilized as an ear cleanser, but also as a skin cleanser.

ARISTOPET EAR CANKER DROPS FOR DOGS/CATS

In dogs and cats, it’s an effective treatment for ear mites and ear canker. The innovative formulation contains antifungal, anticoccidiocidal and antiparasitic qualities that aid in the treatment of ear canker and ear mites in dogs and cats.

KLEO EAR CLEANER FOR DOGS

The ear drops, which have been specially formulated with antiseptic compounds, offer cleansing, drying and antiseptic properties. This non-irritant treatment keeps ears clean, dry and fresh.

DERMCARE OTOFLUSH FOR DOGS

Dermcare Otoflush is a neutral buffered ear treatment that helps dogs to keep their ears clean. It aids in the reduction of microbial infections and the prevention of ear infections. It is beneficial to use before to ear treatment to increase penetration of prescribed ear remedies.

When Cleaning Dog’s Ear, There Are A Few Things to Keep In Mind:

• Q-Tip swabs should not be used because they can drive debris deeper into the ear canal, potentially rupturing the eardrum.
• Use rubbing alcohol or other irritant-free treatments on irritated skin (Think of the skin inside the ear of a dog with an ear infection as a rash).
• Allow around 10 minutes for the ear canal to dry after it has been cleaned. Then, as directed by your veterinarian, administer the treatment(s) (ointment or drops).
• The duration of treatment is determined by the patient, the severity of the infection and any ear changes (i.e., thickening of the tissue in the ear).

Oral treatments are sometimes required (antibiotics, anti-yeast, anti-inflammatory). Rechecks with your veterinarian will be scheduled to ensure that the treatments are functioning for the infection to get cleared.

Ear Infection in Dogs: Causes and Prevention

The first step in preventing an ear infection is to figure out what’s causing it. Bathing, grooming, or swimming can cause the ear canal to become moist. The dampness in the ear canal encourages the growth of bacteria. In many circumstances, prevention can be as simple as cleansing the ear as indicated previously to eliminate moisture and prevent infection.

However, in many cases, an underlying reason may be difficult to pinpoint. Dogs with allergies to pollens (grasses, trees and weeds), dust mites, molds, or food (beef, chicken, fish, soy and so on) are more likely to develop ear infections. This is because allergies induce microscopic inflammation in the skin, allowing bacterial and yeast organisms that typically inhabit the skin to overgrow.

Ear Infections in Dogs Require A Precise Diagnosis:

It’s important to see your veterinarian as soon as possible if your dog is exhibiting any of the usual symptoms of ear infections. Not only is prompt treatment vital for your dog’s comfort (these conditions can be excruciating!), but it also prevents infection from spreading to the middle and inner ear.

Prepare to provide your veterinarian a detailed history of your pet’s health condition. This is especially important if you have a new veterinarian or if you are dealing with a first-time infection. The following information will be required by your veterinarian:

• Duration of symptoms like pain, swelling, discharge and odor
• If your dog is on any other treatment or has any allergies
• What you’ve been feeding your dog
• When it comes to cleaning your dog’s ears, how often do you do it and what products do you use
• Dog’s ears hair has been cut or plucked
• Recent activities such as baths, grooming and swimming
• If your dog has had ear infections before, when did they happen and how did you treat them

Following the collection of your dog’s medical history, your veterinarian will conduct a physical examination. In severe cases, your doctor may also prescribe sedating your dog to allow for a deeper examination of the ear canal. Your veterinarian will examine both ears and the exam may include the following:

• Examine the skin for symptoms of redness, swelling and discharge
• An otoscope is used to evaluate the ear canal and eardrum
• Palpation of the ear to determine the amount of pain
• Microscopic study of materials obtained by ear swabbing
• Samples from the ear are cultured
• Biopsies or X-rays may be required in severe or chronic instances

Ear infections are a frequent and often recurring condition in many dogs, but you can keep your dog’s ears clean and comfortable with the help of your veterinarian. If your dog exhibits symptoms of an ear infection, seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid a more serious problem.

Why My Cat Needs Flea And Tick Protection Plan?

What most pet parents don’t realize that monthly flea and tick treatment is as necessary as the food and water required for their furry pals especially kitties. Usually, parasitic treatments along with dental and joint care are ignored in cats due to their natural tendency which doesn’t bring forth easily the possible signs at the earlier stages of sickness until the health is grossly deteriorated.

Fleas and ticks have a wider impact on the health of your cat as they trigger both external and internal bodily mechanism causing illnesses. The flea bite causes skin irritation as well as tends to transmit lungworm infections in cats. Similarly, ticks not only suck blood and irritate the skin causing allergic reactions that can lead to scratching, infection and hair loss but also transmit Lyme disease. And, when stricken with Lyme disease, the cat can suffer from fever, swollen joints and lameness.

To relieve your cat from fleas and ticks, specially formulated dips, sprays, and topical treatments are available that aids in eliminating this problem and frees your furry pal quickly from the menace of flea and tick bites. Shampoos are primarily helpful in not only removing the girth and dirt but also kicking off biting fleas. Whereas sprays and dips destroy fleas and remove flea dirt. Additionally, flea powder provides similar functionality.

Not limited to just flea powder and spray edition, flea and tick medicines also come in spot-on and oral treatments. Whereas some flea and tick formulations are not restricted to just killing adult flea and tick but has the potentiality of eliminating the larval and other immature stages like flea eggs. For e.g. Frontline Plus restricts the growth of flea eggs and thus breaks the flea life cycle and prevents further flea infestation.

Once the flea medication aids to make your cat pest free, there are these Flea Collars and Spot-on that help to protect your cat year round. These medications though harsh and effective on parasites are gentle on your cat.

Just treating your cat is not enough when you are looking for long term protection and controlling recurring parasitic infestations. Cat surroundings too have to be taken care of and need to be made flea and tick free to keep your furry kid protected.

Rugs, carpets, cushions, and mattresses, as well as upholstery, are the hotspots and breeding grounds of fleas and ticks. These things have to be cleaned regularly in order to remove flea eggs and other immature stages. Not just rugs and mattresses only – floors, crevices, bedding and furniture are not any exclusion. Powder, foggers, and sprays are highly effective and can be easily used for floors and crevices, in controlling flea and tick infestations. These are easy to use and provide quick solutions to get rid of fleas.

Well, complete parasitic control is quite necessary when it comes to protecting your cat from flea and tick infestations. These pests are quite prevalent and can play havoc at any time on your kitty’s health. Therefore, a good protection plan makes it easier to handle the ill effects of fleas and ticks.

A proactive approach in keeping your kitty and home free from fleas and ticks will not only cut down on vet bills but also helps maintain the health of your furry kid.

How To Make Halloween Special For Your Pets?

Halloween is coming, and so is the excitement among all the people across the globe. But with the current global pandemic, Halloween celebrations will probably not be the same, but fret not, you can still enjoy this special day with your four-legged friends. After all, your buddy is special, and he deserves to celebrate it in a special way. So here’s how you can make the upcoming Halloween a one to remember.

Ways To Make Halloween Special For Your Pets

The below points are surely going to help you in making it a night to remember for both you and your furry pal. So make sure you read them carefully.

#1. Halloween Costumes

When it comes to Halloween, we all look forward to all the spooky costumes and the fun, of course. So don’t just wear spooky costumes yourself, but also get one for your furry buddy. Make sure the costume isn’t too tight because it can suffocate your bud. So ensure it is a size or two bigger.

#2. Specialized Pet Treats

Chocolates are a big no no to your buddy. It is dangerous and could prove fatal, if consumed. Hence, specialized pet treats are highly recommended. You can get dog or cat treats at pet stores. But to make this day special for your buddy, it would be awesome to bake some special treats for him instead of buying readymade treats. What’s the fun in that, right?

#3. Trick-O-Treating

Going trick-o-treating from door to door is fun. It’s even more fun when you take your pet along with you. It makes it even special and much more memorable. But make sure, you are well prepared. If you have a dog, then putting him on a leash is a must. If you have a cat, then keeping him in the crate is highly recommended. You don’t want mishaps to occur on this special night, so be extra careful.

#4. Pet Proof Home

Pet proofing your house is very much necessary, especially if you’re including your buddy in your Halloween celebrations. Keep unwanted things away from them, and that include all the chocolate treats and jack-o-lanterns. You don’t want your buddy to fall sick or get hurt, right? So it is imperative to pet proof your home.

#5. Capture The Moments

Special days with your buddy deserve to be captured. So make sure to hold a photo session and keep clicking away. Years later, when you will look back at the pictures, it will surely bring back happy memories and that is something you would want to cherish for the rest of your lives.

Now that’s how you plan the perfect Halloween night for you and your four-legged buddy. Besides, it is also important to get your buddy on a flea and tick preventative schedule so that your night does not get ruined by these pesky critters. Hop over to DiscountPetCare and get yourself flea and tick treatments as well as other essentials for your buddy. The Halloween sale will soon go live, so make sure to check it out in order to earn discounts. HURRY!

Ringworm in Dogs Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

With worms like tapeworms, hookworms and roundworms being the most popular culprits in the lives of our dogs, one may obviously conflate ringworms in the same category, but that isn’t it. Despite the fact that it has the word “worms” in its name, ringworms are not worms. Surprisingly, ringworm is a fungus, a highly contagious fungus that can affect both animals and humans.

 

You can avoid the spread of ringworm if you diagnose it at its early onset. Here’s all you need to know about ringworms in dogs.

What is ringworm in dogs?

Ringworm is a fungal infection that occurs in the superficial layers of skin, hair and nails. Since the fungi that cause ringworm infections are classified into a specialized group called dermatophytes, the medical term for this condition is known as dermatophytosis. The three common fungal species that cause ringworm in dogs are Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These species of ringworm are zoonotic, so they can also infect humans.

What does a ringworm infection look like?

The name “ringworm” originates from the way the skin looks when it is infected: a circular, red, raised rash that looks like a worm in a ring shape. However, the infection does not always establish itself in the form of a circular rash (or lesion) on dogs; instead, round patches of fur loss may emerge (called alopecia). Patches and lesions can form on any part of the body, but they are most commonly found on the face, ears, flanks, and tail.

Other symptoms of ringworm include:

• Scaling (like dandruff in humans)
• Pimples
• Alopecia (fur loss)
• Dark and thickened skin
• Crusting, which looks like a cluster of dried skin cells adhered to skin
• Broken hairs
• Red patches and lesions
• Raised hairless bumps
• Scabby, inflamed skin
• Rough, brittle, broken claws

Note: In the case of humans, the ringworm infection is characterized by a red and itchy skin lesion in the shape of a ring. If you feel you have a ringworm lesion, seek medical advice from a healthcare expert immediately to stop its spread.

How do dogs and humans catch ringworm?

As ringworm is a very contagious disease, it can be contracted from a variety of sources, including the soil, other people, and even your pets. It can live on the surfaces of other items such as clothing, brushes, towels, and bedding. Hence, it can be picked up from any of these sources that are contaminated with the fungus or its spores.

It is one of the few diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, so   if your pet or another person has ringworm, try to avoid the following as much as possible:

• Skin-to-skin contact with the pet/person
• Sharing of bed, towels, etc
• Contact with all other infected items

How to treat ringworm infection?

Ringworm infections are annoying, but it is relatively easy to treat them. The treatment of ringworm depends on the severity of infection, but regardless of the severity of the case, proper treatment is very essential to avoid spread to children and pets.

The treatment of ringworm involves three steps:

1.Topical treatments

To treat and control the localized infections, your veterinarian will likely recommend a topical therapy such as a cream, ointment, or medicated shampoo. Your vet may also suggest cutting long-haired dogs’ coat and shaving the hair from affected regions to speed up the treatment. However, these topicals may take several months to completely eradicate the illness; therefore, they are mostly used in conjunction with oral treatments.

2.Oral treatments

Anti-fungal oral treatments are the most effective way of eradicating the infection. Usually, oral treatments are to be given for a minimum of six weeks, but some cases might require longer therapy. After starting the treatment, ringworm cultures will be taken periodically to determine if your pet is still infected. Two consecutive negative ringworm cultures usually indicate that your pet has been successfully treated, and the treatment can be discontinued. Keep the following points in mind while administering an oral treatment:

• Do not discontinue the treatment sooner than recommended as the infections may reoccur.
• Keep the infected dog separated in case you have multiple pets.
• In some situations, it might be a good option to treat all of the pets.

3.Environmental decontamination

Infected hair contains numerous fungal spores that remain contagious for several months, which can cause infections in humans and animals when shed into the environment. Therefore, it is essential to clean up all this hair as a part of the treatment in order to minimize the chances of infection. Some dog parents prefer to keep their dogs isolated for the time being to reduce the spread of spores and to facilitate the cleaning of hair. Mopping and vacuum cleaning of all the rooms is also worthwhile to reduce contamination, but it is very important to take appropriate steps to minimize exposure to the fungus while doing so, as ringworm is highly contagious. Knowing the symptoms of ringworm can help you prevent the further spread of the disease in humans and other pets. If you suspect that you or any of your pets have ringworm, seek your vet’s assistance immediately.

5 Things To Consider When Buying Pet Food

A pet parent often finds himself in dilemma when he has to buy food for his beloved pet. He wanted to make sure that his pet receives the best and right food to maintain his health. But, what adds to his confusion is the availability of multiple pet foods and added difficulty in choosing the best pet food out of these to suit his furry friend’s food requirements.

Consider These Points to Help Yourself in Buying the Right Food for Your Pet

Age

The nutritional requirement in pets differs depending upon their age.  As a pet parent buy food that caters to your pet’s age. Most pet foods highlight on their packs the particular age category. Choose the pack, which suits your puppy, adult or senior pet.

Breed

Different pet breeds have different food requirements. For instance, the dietary need of a German shepherd is different from the dietary requirement of a Beagle. The varied anatomical and digestive system of both the dogs requires them to be fed with different diets meeting their body needs. Therefore, choose the food specific to your pet breed.

Check Ingredients Which May Cause Food Allergy

Your pet may have developed, over a period of time, sensitivity to certain food ingredients. It is best to know about these ingredients, which may cause allergy in your pet. Check the ingredients and contents of the food on the pack and refrain from buying, if it contains those suspected ingredients.

Pet’s Personal Taste

You may have chosen the diet, which suits your pet’s age, breed and nutritional requirements. However, if the food does not get the approval from your pet then what will be its use? Therefore, it is important to select a diet, which along with appropriate nutritional value also satisfies your pet’s taste. You must know whether your pet likes dry food, wet food or a combination of both. Some prescription diets also come in different flavours to savour your pet’s taste buds.

Current Health Condition Of Your Pet

The current health of your pet determines his nutritional requirements. If your pet is battling with arthritis, then he is required to be fed with a diet comprising of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate elements.

If a pet is obese then a pet parent needs to reduce his calorie intake. Thus, need to choose the diet accordingly. At the same time, if a pet is dealing with any medical problem then he is required to be given a vet prescribed diet.

Therefore, choose the pet food taking note of your pet’s current health condition.

Whether you own a dog or a feline, the above mentioned points would help you select the right dog or cat food. If you still find yourself in troubled waters, do visit your vet and clear your doubts, pertaining to your pet’s dietary requirements.

Top Health Care Tips for Your Aging Dog

It has been a long time since you and your pet are together. There might have been a lot that you both have shared either memories or tough times but then you finally overcame everything together. And, now when you and your pet are growing old, you need to put extra efforts to enhance your aging dog’s longevity as well as to keep yourself healthy. So, to make it easier for a pet-parent here is the list of things you can do to stay healthy and keep your aging pet healthy.

Ensure Your Dog Gets Daily Exercise

Obesity in dogs can be a root cause of many age related issues in them. Therefore, it is crucial for pet-parents to include exercise in your furry pal’s routine. Aging can lower their ability to walk or exercise as they used to do earlier but you still need to stick to it. Regularly exercising with your dog will not only help burn calories but it will also enhance circulation, improve dog’s brain and heart function and will strengthen their muscles. In this manner, even you will be in sync with your good health.

Keep Your Dog Active

As your pup ages their world slow down a bit and that is why, it’s you who can keep your Fido mentally and physically active. Give your pet regular exposure to the outer world where he can meet his playmates or meet new people and socialize with them. Moreover, ensure to enrich your pet’s environment and stick to the predictable routine to help them reduce anxiety and mental uncertainty.

Provide A Complete Balanced Diet To Your Dog

Irrespective of the ages, you pup needs a complete diet. However, for your senior pet, ensure to give a diet that is less in calories and high in fiber. Provide more digestible protein and the food that contains higher moisture as it will be easier to digest for your dog’s aging organs. It is advisable to give multiple small meals than feeding a larger one meal daily. Besides, there are many food for senior dogs are available in the market and you should give it a try for your pet.

Use Joint Supplements

Aging dogs may face a lack of energy; they may don’t move well from sitting to standing position or plop down from a standing position. And, this happens due to the lack of mobility and they get weak. Joint deterioration is a major concern in aging dogs so it is important to adjust their exercise schedule and control their weight. Many joint health supplements are available that can help improve your dog’s joint health and life quality.

Watch Your Dog’s Health

Senior dogs are prone to be infected with diseases and that’s why it is imperative to pay a heed on their health. Even flea and tick infestation can engender malignant diseases if not taken proper care. Therefore, ensure to provide monthly flea and tick preventives, dewormers as well as joint care treatments to take care of your furry pal’s overall wellbeing. Furthermore, if you notice any unusual symptoms in your pet or even a bit of change in his behaviour then immediately take him to the vet.

Even if you feel that your pup is fit and fine, do not neglect to examine your pet twice a year. Above all, keep showing all your affection and care to your dog. Loving your pet and keeping him happy are the essentials for their healthy immune system.

5 Reasons Why Dogs Require Professional Training

Bringing home a dog is something that light ups your world. And, as a pet-parent you really wanna do everything perfect for your pup. Either a novice or an experienced pet-parent, all are aware of the fact that dogs need training not only to adopt human environment but to also streamline their routines in a particular manner. Well, training a dog isn’t an easy task, it takes a lot to train someone who cannot communicate as we do. Though there’s an overflowing information available on how to train a dog on internet, which can surely serve as a ice-breaker. However, after all that there can be minor issues that may create big issues if you don’t hire a professional dog trainer.

Yes, you might be putting in your best efforts to train your dog but there are certain signs your pet displays which indicates that it’s time to hire a professional dog trainer now.

Pulling on the leash

Law states that generally collars and leashes are required for pets. It means that if you want to take your dog out in public than the dog has to be on leash. However, not all dogs like to be leashed and can drag you around. Dogs that are not used to the leash can be out of control when you take them in public. And, heavy pulling can be dangerous, therefore, it is crucial to hire a dog trainer to provide leash training and ensure that your pooch stays safe in public.

Jumping

Jumping in joy is a dog’s normal tendency. But pet-parents complaining about unwanted jumping of their dog is a matter of concern. Especially when people come to visit and all they can witness is a dog jumping uncontrollably. Jumping can be hurtful as people can get injured, knocked over or scratched if the dog isn’t trained to control his unwanted jumping. So, the key is to hire a pet trainer who can help your pup with his jumping issues.

Growling and Biting

Aggression in dogs can be dangerous and growling is one of the earliest sign of aggression in dogs. Growling is an alarming sign that the dog is escalated into full-blown attack or bites. And, if your dog develops the habit if biting others than be a really serious matter as he can harm others. It becomes almost impossible for a pet-parent to handle their pup’s aggression in public. Hence, it is wise to seek the help of a professional assistance.

Separation Anxiety

Well, every dog has separation anxiety up to an extent. However, some can be more vulnerable with the idea of staying away from their pet-parent even for a specific time during the day. Therefore, if you pet cannot stay away from you even for a short span and becomes anxious then it is advisable to leave your Fido only under the supervision of a trained professional. Because an expert can handle a dog suffering from anxiety issues and yet manage to train him with all the patience.

Ignoring Commands

At times, people ignoring what we say are acceptable but when a pet completely ignores what you’re saying raises a matter of concern for every pet-parent. This may happen due to many facts such as inconsistency in training, distractions, not understanding the command. Sometimes the situation can become uncontrollable that can put your pet as well as everyone in danger. So, hiring a professional dog trainer will surely help keep to solve the issue of a dog ignoring commands.

Apart from the lack of professional dog training, there can be other issues why a dog misbehaves or ignores your commands. It can probably be any health issue or other condition that may be withholding him from behaving normally. Therefore, it is essential to consult your vet once before proceeding further.

What Food Can and Cannot Be Eaten By Dogs | Pet Food | Dog Care | DiscountPetCare

Here is the list of what food can and cannot be eaten by dogs. However, as a responsible pet parent, you must do research and prepare nutritious, healthy meals for your furry family member. 

True Story of Balto – A Dog Who Saved Human Lives

When we say that dogs make our life better, we truly mean it. Dogs bring an abundance of joy into our lives with their adorable and quirky personalities. You often look at the dog as a pet and companion. However, have you ever thought that a dog could save human lives too? Sounds unbelievable, right? Well, when you hear about the story of Balto, who lead the team during the harsh winters of Alaska just to save numerous human lives. Today, we are sharing the heart touching story of Balto, which will restore your faith in animals and their dedication.

Balto – A True Hero

It started in early January of the year 1925 when the doctors and researchers started to see manifestations of a fatal infection, diphtheria. Thankfully, there existed a lifesaving serum, which was 500 miles away. Amidst the harsh winters of Alaska where temperatures easily drop down to 50, it was almost impossible to make a journey. Due to that, planes weren’t able to fly to the destination, and the only way was to get the serum through a 650-mile freight route. So, the experts chose to get the medicine via various dog sled teams.

The serum was to be transported from Anchorage to Nenana by train, where the first musher commenced to deliver the serum to Nome. In this journey, there were more than 20 mushers, who were determined in their goal and faced many challenges including a blizzard with -31 celsius temperature along with strong winds.

On February 2, 1925, the Norwegian Gunnar Kaasen drove his team, which was led by none other than Balto. Although the most dangerous stretch was covered by a dog team led by Togo, Balto proved himself despite facing many challenges along the way. He also saved his team in the Topkok River and stayed on the trail even during a complete whiteout situation. Kaasen has also mentioned that he wasn’t able to see his hand properly, and yet Balto stayed right on track through the dark path. When they arrived in Nome, everyone was congratulating Kaasen for successfully bringing the serum, but he insisted that Balto was equally responsible for this success.

Soon after the mission ended, Balto and Kaasen became the talk of the town. Everyone wanted to meet the dog who was a part of this mission that saved so many lives. In fact, Frederick Roth sculpted a statue of Balto, which stands in New York City’s Central Park which is still visited by many students and tourists.

Balto died in the year 1933 at the age of 14, and even to this day, people remember him for his unwavering courage and determination. 

Stories like these show us how valuable these animals are to the human race. We often believe that as humans, we are capable of everything, but that’s not entirely true. Every life has a meaning, and even a dog’s life is as important as humans are. If it wasn’t for Balto, the mission wouldn’t have been completed in that time frame. Therefore, as humans, we should always appreciate and look after animals and birds as we all are codependent on each other.

Advocate For Dog- A Panacea For Major Parasitic Infections

A dog’s health is often marred by his enemies in the form of fleas, ticks, worms, heartworms, etc. If fleas bring discomfort to his healthy life, then a disease like heartworm poses a threat to his existence. And, not to mention the period of stress a pet parent undergoes because of his pet’s suffering is unexplainable.

Parasitic infestation in dogs, internal or external is a big cause of worry for the pet parents out there. They do aware of the fact that it will not take much time to aggravate a particular health disorder in the pet, if not treated on time. The instances of pets bitten by flea parasites, and then having serious skin disorders, in the form of Flea Allergy Dermatitis adds weight to this notion.

Similarly, protecting your pet against all kind of worms becomes mandatory, due to the level of threat a worm in the heart or in intestine of a pet carries. There are ways to protect your pet not only from flea menace and heartworm infection but also from major parasitic infestations.

A major dilemma, which a pet owner faces when he seeks to buy products for his pet is the plethora of pet care products offered to him for his pet care. The lack of objectivity, on part of these products, makes the situation more complex and confusing for a pet parent. A product like Advocate, which is effective in eliminating all major parasites – fleas, heartworms, etc. thus, comes in the picture.

Advocate- Specifications

A spot-on monthly treatment, manufactured by Bayer, Advocate protects your dog against fleas, lice, ear mites, gastrointestinal worms, heartworms, etc. Its unique action formula provides fast relief to a pet, infested by fleas and lice. With single application, it kills fleas present on a pet’s body in a very short span of time. It also prevents further flea infestation, protecting your pet for complete one month from fleas.

The presence of active ingredients like Imidacloprid and Moxidectin makes it an all-rounder in protecting a dog from internal and external parasitic threats. Putting your dog under the monthly protection of Advocate would ensure his safety from heartworm and other gastrointestinal worms including roundworm, whipworm and hookworm.

Do measure your dog’s weight to buy the right Advocate pack for your pooch. Consult your vet for any other queries related to the product.

As a pet parent, your area of concern should not be limited just to getting the right flea or heartworm treatment. Observe your pet’s dwellings, habits, and check the development of fleas taking place in your home environment. Make it a routine affair to clean your house- indoor and outdoor once a week. Do not forget your pet’s heartworm medications and put your pet under regular vet consultation.

Is Your Dog Peeing Inside The Home? Here’s How You Can Prevent It!

Well, if your furry pal keeps peeing inside the house, there might be a problem. Despite training him to pee outside or at a given spot, if he still has this ‘pee’ problem, pet parents need to take some actions. Usually, this issue can be resolved by re-training your dog. However, if your dog still doesn’t comply and pees inside the house, there might be some underlying health condition related to it. Below are the causes for this kind of behavior.

• Urinary incontinence
• Urinary tract issues
• Behavioural issues
• Aging

These are the main reasons for such changes in peeing habits of a dog. In case of urinary tract issue, a vet can recommend some home care technique which can benefit pet parents. Moreover, when it comes to urinary incontinence and behavioural problems, there are many products available for it. If your dog pees on the spot because he gets anxious very quickly, you can opt for Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser. This product will ease him into a comfortable state and prevent such accidents in the future.

In case of aging dogs, you can prevent such occurrence with the help of diet modification and supplements. So, consult the vet for the same to inculcate this lifestyle from early on.

We know you want to help your furry pal, so we have listed down some important points on how to stop your dog from urinating in the house.

1. Increase pee and potty breaks – When the dog pees frequently, the best practice is to take him out for potty break right after he eats or drinks anything in large amount. This will send a signal that he is supposed to go out whenever he wants to do his business.
2. Re-train the dog – When there are no other health problems, all you need to do is train your dog again so that he gets the message loud and clear.
3. Identify the triggers– There are chances that your dog is bothered by something that makes him pee inside the house. So, find out what is triggering your dog to pee on the spot and teach him how to be okay with it. If you can get rid of it, that could be very helpful to the dog. If not, just make your dog understand that it’s not a big deal.
4. Don’t be aggressive – Well, dogs are precious creatures with so much love and empathy. So, you certainly don’t want to yell and scare off your furry baby. This can leave a bad impact on their mental health and can affect their behaviour as well.
5. Clean up the surface – The key to stopping the recurrence of this incidence is to clean up properly. Dogs like to mark their territory so it’s possible that your doggo might be coming back to pee on the same place because he can detect the smell. Moreover, you can also use Urine Off, which is an excellent spray for getting rid of urine stain and odour.

By following these simple steps, you never have to worry about your dog’s pee problem again!

Ways To Naturally Prevent Fleas On Dogs | DiscountPetCare

Try these natural ways to prevent fleas on dogs. We have put together a list of natural home remedies here, many of which you can make from the ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Effective Ways Of Getting Rid Of Fleas

Fleas are very annoying creatures. Their main aim is to feed on cats and make their life miserable. Flea infestation can cause itching and restlessness in your cat. This can cause problems for both you and your cat as fleas are not that easy to get rid of. The first and foremost step is to see why your cat is scratching herself. Maybe your cat is getting restless because of some other reasons like anxiety or allergy. If you find no major signs of infestation, then you don’t need to worry about it. But if you are suspicious of flea infestation, continue reading this article to find out signs and treatments for flea infestation.

The popular hotspots of fleas are back of the neck, ear, and groin of your pet. So, if you want to check for flea signs, always look in those areas. If your cat is infested, you’ll see little parasites jumping or crawling on your cat. Below are the main signs that you need to look out for.

Main Signs of Flea Infestation in Cats:

• Restlessness
• Little brown spots on fur
• Constant scratching
• Flea dirt when you rub their fur

Flea dirt is something that falls off when you rub cat’s fur. That is actually an excretion of adult fleas. The best way to identify it is to put a few drops of water on those little black particles and if the water turns red, then your cat most probably has fleas.

If you have established that your cat is infested, the next step should be to tackle this situation with caution. Remember, fleas can be harmful to you too. So, always take safety measures when dealing with such situation.

Here’s what You Should Do To Minimize The Damage –

• Try to remove as many fleas as you can with the help of flea comb.
• Bathe your cat properly. There are many flea shampoos available which you can use.
• Apply spot-on treatment or administer oral tablet. This will speed up the process of killing remaining fleas.
• Vacuum the areas that are accessed by your cat. So, if there are any fleas or flea eggs on the surface, they can be removed.
• Wash any clothes or fabrics in hot water that you think might have been infested.

Flea Infestation Treatments

Year round flea treatment is necessary for cats. Your house is never totally free from fleas, so if you keep using the preventives, your cat won’t be at the risk of getting infested. Mainly there are two treatments available for flea infestation: spot on and oral treatment. Advantage is an effective spot-on treatment for cats. It is to be applied monthly and will get rid of all the fleas. If you prefer oral treatment, Capstar is a fast-acting tablet that will kill most of the fleas within 30 minutes of administration. These year round preventives will protect your cat from any kind of infestation and prevent re-infestation.

It’s always shocking to find out that your cat has been infested by fleas, especially when you keep your house clean all the time. The fleas that you can be spotted are adult fleas. The infestation occurs on a very large scale and the population of adult fleas is very less compared to the eggs and larvae that are scattered around in your house. So, always be on a look-out for those little creatures.

Getting rid of fleas will take some time, but once you start the treatment and take proper care of your cat, there will be lesser risk of infestation. Always keep a watchful eye for re-infestation so your pet doesn’t have to go through this again. We always want our pets to be happy and these small steps will go a long way in protecting your furry companion.

Pet Nutrition Is Important for Healthy Skin and Coat

There are numerous pet food companies that promote their brand of cat or dog food for a healthy coat, but how do you know which one will provide the best nutrients for your pet? You want to provide your dog or cat food that will help them thrive as a responsible pet parent. Looking for a few important features on a pet food label may help you determine whether the meal you choose promises a specific benefit, but choosing a dog or cat food for a healthy coat isn’t the only approach to ensure your pet’s skin and coat are in good condition. Learn how nutrition, environmental variables, and grooming may all contribute to your pet’s appearance and well-being.

Do you want to find the perfect food?

Maybe your dog or cat already has sensitive or itchy skin, or maybe you want to switch to a meal that promotes overall excellent health, including skin and fur. Whatever the rationale, avoid focusing on just one or two important ingredients or needs. For a healthy coat, some pet parents search for high-fat content in cat or dog food. Although nutrients such as fish oil are commonly used in promoting cat food for a healthy coat, your furry pet still requires a balanced balance of vitamins, minerals, protein, and carbohydrates. The truth is that most cats and dogs are already protected from skin and coat issues by eating a well-balanced diet. Beauty truly begins on the inside.

If you make it a habit to read the ingredient and nutrient profiles on your pet’s food bag or can, these are some of the more prevalent nutrients that support healthy skin and coats in pets:

Omega-3: This nutrient, which is commonly found in components such as fish oil, has an anti-inflammatory impact and can help soothe itchy or inflamed skin. This component is commonly seen in pet diets designed for allergy-prone dogs.

Omega-6: This nutrient is a fatty acid that helps your pet’s coat shine and replaces important oils in their skin.

Biotin: It is a B-complex vitamin that aids in the formation of healthy tissues.

Copper: This nutrient aids in the maintenance of hair color and keeps the coat silky and lustrous.

Vitamin E: It is a natural antioxidant that helps protect your pet’s skin from free radicals that can damage skin cells.

However, if you’ve been feeding your pet high-quality food with a balanced nutrient profile and you’re still noticing dry skin, dandruff flakes, or dull-looking fur, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Your pet’s food or components may need to be changed. Remember, never make any modifications without first consulting with your veterinarian.

The first thing to look for in a pet food to encourage healthy skin and coat is one manufactured with high-quality ingredients and that provides comprehensive balanced nutrition. This alone can contribute to a more luscious, luster-filled coat. If your pet is scratching excessively or has recurrent skin problems, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to discuss the next steps. They can assist in determining the source of the itch and recommending a meal made for sensitive skin or even a therapeutic food specially formulated to encourage healthier skin and coats.

What Is the Appearance of a Healthy Coat?

What indicators of a healthy coat should you look for? To begin, you need to become acquainted with your pet’s distinct qualities. For both cats and dogs, perform a daily head-to-paws check and brush your pet at least once a week. Brushing dogs more frequently (even daily) helps disperse natural oils throughout the coat and untangle mats. Cats (and your carpet) benefit from fewer hairballs and more snuggle time when they are groomed.

Cats are avid self-groomers, so an unruly coat could indicate that your kitten isn’t feeling well. Arthritis may prohibit your cat from combing some areas, and a dull, greasy, or matted hair may indicate health issues or a lack of key nutrients. A worried cat may also over-groom, yanking away tufts of her own fur.

Because your dog does not bathe as frequently, he or she may require a bit extra assistance to look well-groomed. What is usual for one breed may not be normal for another; a husky may require daily brushing, but your dachshund may be pleased with a fast bath. Dogs with thinner, lighter-colored skin, such as pit bull mixes, are more prone to skin irritations such as sunburn, bug bites, and seasonal allergies. If you have a lovable mutt, reviewing some short and long hair care standards might help you set a baseline.

Keep an eye out for the following when brushing your cat or dog:

• Bald patches or clumps of fur going out
• Skin that is dry, red, or irritating
• Sores or rough patches
• Greasiness
• Ticks or flea eggs in the form of little black or white flecks

If none of these items develop, your pet’s coat is most likely healthy. However, if you see any of these symptoms, it’s important to dig deeper to find out what’s causing your pet’s coat problems.

Is it still a mystery? Consult with Your Vet

If you observe your cat scratching their ears or your dog licking themselves continuously, it’s probable that something in their environment is causing the irritation. Fleas and ticks, as well as seasonal allergies and food intolerance, are major causes of itching pets. As soon as the itching begins, make a list of any new cleaning products, air fresheners, colognes, or soaps that have been introduced into your home and may be bothering your pet.

Your veterinarian will be able to assess the state of your pet’s coat and skin to determine whether additional testing is required. Skin problems caused by an infection or fungus may necessitate the use of drugs and/or specific shampoos.

Further Reading

If your veterinarian has ruled out all other possibilities, they may advise you to go over the ingredients in your pet’s current and previous foods. They may advise you to provide a particular diet to your pet to see if he or she has a food allergy, or to supplement your pet’s nutrition with a deficient vitamin, antioxidant, or fatty acid. As nutrition is essential for skin and coat health, it’s important to keep your dog or cat on any special diets your vet suggests. Even if the disease improves, do not resume eating other foods without first consulting with your veterinarian. Don’t waste months or years looking for the best dog food for a healthy coat; instead, take your pet to the vet as soon as possible and on a regular basis to address any skin and coat issues. You are the beginning of your pet’s healthy future, both inside and out. You can keep your dog or cat’s coat and skin healthy and vibrant for years with correct feeding, grooming, and frequent vet checkups.