Pet Health Tips for Fall

For most people, fall is the perfect season. There are plenty of outdoor activities to share with your pet. The following tips will help you ensure your pet enjoys this fall season to the maximum while staying healthy.

Be cautious about tick infestation

Studies show that many tick species are active into the freezing winter and are able to survive the cold. That means there could likely be some ticks lurking around in wait for your pets. Use these tips to prevent tick infestation:

•    Keep a clean environment. Get rid of garden and leaf litter and any other dirt where ticks can survive through winter.

•    Next, regularly check your pets to see if they have tics

•    Continually use tick repellant and control products, particularly if you plan on spending more time enjoying various outdoor activities such as camping, hunting or hiking

•    Consult your vet about frequent testing for infections related to tick infestation

Look out for rodenticides like rat poison

Rodents like mice and rats will often start scurrying around looking for warmth during fall. Your home is a significant target for these rodents. You will likely be using rodenticides and mouse traps to prevent a mice infestation.

However, most rodenticides are very risky to pets. If your cat or dog directly ingests rat poison, it can be quite deadly. Ask your vet regarding the safest pest control methods. Also, if your pet eats any rodent that was poisoned, call your vet instantly. 

Beware of fungus

Some states experience wetter fall seasons, which means more mushrooms on forest floors and backyards. While most mushrooms will be non-toxic, a small number are very toxic to both pets and their owners. So, be cautious about fungus and visit your vet if your pet eats poisonous mushrooms.

Offer more food

As it gets colder, your pet will need more energy to keep warm. You will likely require increasing your pet servings as they need that extra food to keep generating sufficient body heat. However, before you start increasing your pet’s food, consult your vet, as every pet will have unique nutrition needs.

Don’t give chocolate and sweets

The fall season is a time where most people increase their intake of sweets, chocolate, and other hearty foods. However, ensure your pets aren’t indulging in these foods as they can be toxic for them. These foods include chocolate, raisins, and grapes.

Finally, holidays in fall also mean more decorations. So, be keen so that you don’t leave irregularly shaped trinkets and objects around the home. 

References : Pet Health Network, Trupanion, Pethub