The Importance of Preventative Medicine for Your Pet

Just like humans, our beloved pets need to see the doctor for regular checkups and vaccinations. These well-visits are important not only for diagnosing and treating any existing health problems, but also for preventing future ones. Here's everything you need to know about preventative medicine for your pet. When it comes time to schedule your next veterinarian visit, call the team at Katy Veterinary Clinic. We will love to help you with all of your pet’s needs.

Why is Preventative Medicine Important?

Preventative medicine is important for both you and your pet. Vaccinations help protect your pet from deadly diseases, while regular checkups can catch health problems early, when they're easier to treat. By investing in preventative care now, you can save yourself a lot of money and heartache down the road.

What Does Preventative Medicine Typically Include?

The components of preventative medicine will vary depending on your pet's age, health, and lifestyle. However, there are some basic things that all pets need in order to stay healthy. These include:

Vaccinations: Vaccinations help protect your pet from serious—and sometimes deadly—diseases. Puppies and kittens should start their vaccinations as early as six to eight weeks old, with boosters given every three to four weeks until they're 16 weeks old. After that, most pets will need a booster every one to three years.

Parasite prevention: All pets are susceptible to parasites, including fleas, ticks, and heartworms. There are a variety of effective parasite prevention products on the market, so talk to your veterinarian about which one is right for your pet.

Diet and exercise: A healthy diet and regular exercise are important for all pets. Obesity can lead to a host of health problems, including joint pain, diabetes, and respiratory difficulties. Ask your vet for recommendations on how much food and exercise is appropriate for your pet based on their age, breed, and activity level.

Oral care: Just like humans, pets need to take care of their teeth! Brushing your pet's teeth daily is the best way to keep their pearly whites healthy and sparkling. However, if that's not possible, there are plenty of other oral care options available, such as dental chews and water additives. Talk to your veterinarian about what's best for your pet.

Preventative medicine is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. By taking steps now to keep your pet healthy, you can help your furry friend live a long and healthy life. At Katy Veterinary Clinic, we know the wellbeing of your pet is of utmost importance. That’s why we go above and beyond to offer the best care. Contact us today to find out more about what we can offer you!