Being a responsible pet owner means staying on top of your pet's health and knowing what regular check ups or treatments your dog or cat needs to stay healthy and happy.
So here are the key treatments your pet needs annually:
Vaccinations
Dogs and cats should be placed on a vaccination schedule from birth.
For dogs, the core vaccine is the C3, which protects against canine parvovirus, distemper and infectious hepatitis.
For cats, the core vaccine is the F3, protecting against feline parvovirus and the two main viruses that cause cat flu (feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus).
Puppies and kittens should usually receive their first vaccinations at eight to nine weeks of age, and again three to four weeks later, and finally between 14 and 20 weeks, before moving to a regular booster schedule, as recommended by your veterinarian.
Generally, adult cats and dogs receive an annual booster vaccine, but the recommended frequency depends on the vaccine used, the individual animal and their risk of exposure to disease. Talk to your vet about the right schedule for your pet.
Annual dental check up
Dental disease is the most common health condition in pets, with 70 per cent of cats and 80 per cent of dogs experiencing some level of dental disease by the time they're three years old.
Dental disease can cause significant pain and, as it advances, pets can experience infection, inflammation and bone loss, all of which can affect their general health too.
You should manage your cat or dog's teeth at home, through a combination of a special 'dental' diet designed to control plaque build up, chew toys and dental treats where appropriate, and potentially brushing your pet's teeth (though this should be done gradually and with a slow introduction for your pet).
As well as this, your dog or cat should have an annual dental check up with your vet. Your vet may recommend your pet be placed under anaesthesia and have a thorough examination of their gums and teeth, and any cleaning required.
General health check up
Usually when your pet visits the vet for vaccinations or a dental check, the vet will also perform a general health check, including assessing their weight and overall physical health.
It's important to know your pet's ideal weight and keep an eye on it between visits.
Remember, if you have any concerns at all for your pet's health, especially if you have noticed a change in their weight, eating, drinking, temperament or behaviour, visit your vet as soon as possible for expert advice.
Breeds with exaggerated features
Unfortunately, some breeds of dogs and cats have been bred to select for exaggerated features that are considered fashionable. These include brachycephalic or 'flat-faced' breeds such as pugs, French and British bulldogs and Boston terrier dogs, and Persian and exotic shorthair cats.
Brachycephalic breeds can suffer from Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome, that impacts their ability to breathe, cope with stress and moderate their body temperature.
You must be extra careful with these animals and recognise the risk to their health and safety from hot, humid weather, stress, travel (particularly air travel) and some forms of exercise.
Other pedigree breeds can also have congenital health defects, and it's important to know what your dog or cat is predisposed to, so you can effectively care for them.
Many breeds with exaggerated features will require ongoing specialist veterinary care, and many may even need corrective surgery. If you have a brachycephalic animal, you should talk to a vet who specialises in brachycephalic issues for advice.
Talk to your vet to understand the potential health risks of the breed you're interested in before you introduce a new pet to the family, and if you already have an animal with exaggerated features, make sure you know how best to care for them; discuss a schedule of check ups with your vet to stay on top of their health.
