You may be spending a good bit of time right now finalizing — and, of course, implementing — your resolutions for the new year. But as CNN reports, have you thought about what might be optimal for your best friend and furry companion? Here are some new year’s resolutions experts say can benefit both you and your pet.
Everything in Moderation, Especially Treats
America is in the midst of an obesity crisis, and it’s affecting our dogs and cats. Too many pets today are overweight, says Dr. Dana Varble, chief veterinary officer of the North American Veterinary Community. “If your dog or cat was to speak to you, he or she might admit that they are getting too many treats. ‘It is getting awfully hard to catch my breath when we play ball and my hips and knees are starting to ache,’ your dog might say.
“Your cat might give you a dirty look for allowing the vet to check their weight, and will certainly blame any extra pounds on you. ‘The fact that you give in every time I yowl, purr, or rub your legs isn’t helping my weight problem,’ your cat might say,’” Varble added.
Instead of acquiescing to those plaintive meows or soulful eyes, Varble suggests reducing the amount of food you give at any one meal or feeding. Instead, provide a smaller amount at set times throughout the day to help your pet lose a few pounds.
Make Time for Play and Walks
Exercise is good for both you and your pet, Varble says. That’s easily achieved with a dog: Nearly every dog would benefit from at least two walks a day, or a good chase after a ball or Frisbee, she said. “You need the fresh air, and your dog needs to be able to check out all the smells in the neighborhood, which keeps their minds busy and their body tired.”
How do you exercise a cat? Some people put their fuzzy felines on a leash and go for a walk. But if that’s not for you – or let’s face it, your cat says “no way” – then get some interactive toys for them to chase around. “Remember, toys are like prey. Your cat is still an ancient predator,” says Varble.
Interactive toys don’t have to be expensive. A toilet paper roll, a paper bag, a crinkled ball of foil or a string you trail behind you will excite the hunter in your domesticated kitty as much as the most expensive interactive toy. Tie feathers to the end of a stick, swing it through the air and watch your cat leap – interacting with your cat is good for both of you.
And of course no cat can resist the allure of an empty box, especially one that turns out to have an unexpected treat or toy in it. Consider all the memes of cats sitting in boxes; even lions, tigers and other big cats find the habit irresistible.
Play Mind Games
Both dogs and cats can benefit from mental exercise as well. Food puzzles are a great way to keep your pet’s mind engaged. The internet is full of such items to purchase, but it’s also full of DIY examples you can easily make on your own.
Cut circles in the top of a shoebox and drop in treats for your cat to fish out. Roll some treats up in a towel for your dog to unravel. Cut small holes in a toilet paper roll, put treats inside and tape up the ends — voila, you have a rolling treat dispenser. Or do the same with a plastic bottle. (Wouldn’t coming up with these ideas also be a good human brain game?)
Don’t Forget to Groom
You like to shower and style your hair, right? A good brushing stimulates blood flow to your scalp and distributes natural oils, making your hair shine with health. Your dog and cat benefit from daily brushing — and an occasional bath — too. (Your couch will also thank you.)
Take it a step further and brush your pet’s teeth. Yes, cats need their teeth brushed too. Start when your pet is a puppy or kitten and you’ll have no issues, but with some patience you can ease your adult pet into the process too, experts say.
Periodontal disease, which is inflammation of the gums and bone that support your pet’s teeth, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease in dogs. And because the kidneys and liver filter bacteria from the mouth that’s circulating in the blood, those organs are especially vulnerable to damage. “Following a good oral care routine, including brushing teeth and regular dental evaluation with your veterinarian, can prevent these serious consequences,” Varble said.
Make Sure Your Pet Can Be Found
If your pet went on an unplanned walkabout, would your neighbors be able to call you or bring them home? Identification tags are inexpensive and available at most pet stores. Even better: The more permanent form of identification, a microchip, cannot fall off or be removed and can be a lifesaver if your pet wanders farther from home.
Microchipping isn’t hard to do, either. It is just as routine and simple as giving your pet a vaccination at a routine veterinary visit. Your vet will simply inject the microchip with a hypodermic needle in the loose skin near your cat or dog’s shoulder. The process doesn’t even require any surgery or anesthesia, which means it’s not expensive. The average cost of your dog’s microchip is about $50, and once you’re done, you’re done – there are no annual fees. So why wouldn’t you spend $50 for peace of mind?
—
Photo Credit: Lucky Business / Shutterstock.com