If you own a cat or a dog, the Internet is full of information for pet owners. So, let’s talk about the most common pet care myths.
Myth Number 1: I Don’t Need to Take My Pet For Prevention Every Month
It is a common belief that pet owners skip parasite prevention during the winter months. It’s true that flea and tick activity reduces when there is a dip in temperature, But it only takes a day of mild weather for fleas and ticks to be active again. So, it’s important to keep your pet on prevention throughout the year to protect them from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and tickborne diseases like Lyme and Ehrlichia.
Myth Number 2: Chew bones are good for Dog’s Teeth!
Bones pose a huge risk to the pet’s health. Not only, can they break the teeth, but if they are swallowed, bones can enter in stomach or intestine that need to be removed surgically. Instead of giving chew bones, try to give dental chews that have the approval from Veterinary Oral Health Council.
Myth Number 3: If Dog Is Eating Grass Means The Dog Is Sick?
If dogs have the habit of eating grass, that does indicate any kind of illness or gastrointestinal issues. But, Eating grass is considered a normal behavior and should not be a clinical concern. If your dog tends to eat grass, just make sure the area is free of pesticides and herbicides as they can be toxic for your pet.
Myth Number 4: Ringworm is a worm
Ringworm is not an actual worm as it looks from its name. Instead, it is a skin infection that is caused by a fungus called a dermatophyte. Mostly, ringworms can make a circular-shaped rash on the skin. Ringworm is extremely contagious to other animals. And it is quite zoonotic, meaning people can even catch it from their pets.
Myth Number 5: Routine veterinary care is not required for cats?
People believe that cats do not require routine veterinary care as dogs do, but this is not the case, Not only do cats need routine checkups for vaccines as well as parasite prevention, but routine lab checkups can help in detecting early stages of kidney disease. A vet performs will perform a physical examination and discuss your cat’s lifestyle and nutrition that helps in the overall development of a weight management plan, keeping your cat at a healthy weight, and managing the body condition score.
Myth Number 6: Pet needs daily vitamins along with their pet food
Does the pet need daily vitamins? No, it is not necessary. There are some vitamins and supplements that we recommend, but based on the symptoms your pet may be having. For example, a fish oil supplement is recommended if the pet has itchy skin. If your pet is not showing any clinical symptoms and is fed with a balanced and veterinarian recommended diet, then there is no need for daily vitamins.
If you would like to discuss any of these myths further we will be happy to see you for an appointment.
