practice prevention

Keep up a medication regimen throughout the year, not just during warmer months. Always buy the medicine directly from your vet, who can prescribe the right protocol.

heartworm: This disease has been reported in all 50 states for both cats and dogs. Though easy to prevent, it is difficult to cure—and can spread to people through contact.

flea- and tick-borne illness: Ticks tend to get all the attention, but fleas can also pose a health risk beyond the usual scratching.

• Because fleas are found everywhere, and have implications for both dogs and cats, it’s important to give your pet protection—even if ticks are not a concern. Tapeworm and flea allergy dermatitis, or hot spots, are the risks for dogs, secondary anemia for cats.
• Ticks are problematic in certain parts of the country, and only for dogs (there are no known health risks for cats). If you live in a tick-prone area, or will be traveling to one, discuss the best protocol (oral, topical, or even a combination) with your vet.

arthritis: Older pets may require medications for arthritis and other age-related aches and pains, and your vet can suggest a treatment plan to help alleviate any suffering.

administer medication

Not all dogs and cats have a problem taking medicine. If that doesn’t describe your pet, however, try these vet-approved methods. Follow up with praise and other rewards.

pills and tablets

1. First, offer a bite or two of a food your pet enjoys (cheese, peanut butter, chicken) without the medicine, then sneak it into the food. (This will keep him from avoiding treats entirely.)

2. If that doesn’t work, or if your pet is on a restricted diet, try this: Gently push the pill into your pet’s mouth, at the very back of the tongue, then hold her head high (stroking her to keep her calm) until she swallows.

liquids

1. Try mixing it into her regular meal. Many liquids now come in a surprising range of flavors (bacon, beef, and salmon among them), so your pet may have no objection at all.

2. If that doesn’t work, or if the drug cannot be taken with food, do this: Pull out the side of your pet’s cheek and, with a syringe or teaspoon, squeeze or pour the medicine into her mouth. Avoid tilting her head back or forceful squirting, which can cause choking.

Watch for Warning Signs

Dogs and cats can mask medical problems with admirable stoicism, so it’s up to you to be on the lookout for subtle signals. Call your vet right away if any of the following applies.

• Give your pet a thorough once-over each month, feeling for any unusual lumps on the face or body, and looking for skin sores, a dull or scaly coat, or more than the usual discharge from the nose, ears, or eyes.
• Pay close attention to changes in your pet’s activity level, appetite, and attitude. Same goes for unexplained weight gain or loss.
• If you notice excessive drooling and/or very bad breath, or if your pet seems to be dropping food or chewing on one side only, periodontal disease may be the problem—which, as with humans, can affect overall health.
• Excessive wax or odor in a dog’s or cat’s ears can signal an ear infection, as can a pet who seems to be tilting or shaking his head, or frequently scratching his ears.
• A pet who is hiding, crouching, or seems more needy (and/or vocal) than normal is possibly trying to send a message.
• Cats who stop their usual grooming may also be waving a red flag.

Martha Must

I highly recommend looking for a veterinarian who practices what is known as integrative medicine, which combines the best of both conventional and alternative therapies. This approach should also focus on wellness and disease prevention, and on teaching and informing pet owners so they can better ensure their pet’s health. As such, be sure to ask questions and demand helpful answers.