There is so much to celebrate about sharing another beautiful spring season with your pet. As flowers bloom and pesky critters come out to play again, there are also precautions to take to help keep your furry family member safe and healthy.
Whether your pet goes outside or remains indoors, it’s likely that your pet will be exposed to new plants, new routines and the normal changes that accompany a change in season. Prepare your pet by taking stock of safety measures you’ll need to start taking now.
Here are simple springtime safety tips for your beloved pet.
Spring Cleaning
For some people, spring signals the time to deep clean their apartment. While it’s great to get your home looking shiny and bright for a new season, it’s important to be mindful of exposing your pets to toxic and even poisonous cleaning products. Even some “natural” products can be harmful to animals. To be safe, keep your pets secure during deep cleanings, and if you can’t keep your pets secure, keep all cleaning products out of your pet’s reach.
Spring Flowers & Plants
Although spring flowers are wonderful to look at and refreshing to smell, some of them can be toxic to your cats. While we love the smell of Easter lilies in the spring, these are particularly dangerous for cats. Bright, blooming daffodils are also toxic for cats, and both of these plants should stay outside of your home and away from your cats at all times.
Fleas & Ticks
Warmer weather brings all of us out to play in spring, including pesky critters like fleas and ticks. You’ll want to make sure your pet is on a veterinarian-approved flea and tick preventative to keep them safe from potentially harmful ticks and frustrating fleas.
Allergies
Just as humans can suffer from hay fever in spring, so can your pets. You may notice your pets itching and scratching more, or they may begin to sneeze or have nasal discharge. While most allergies are mild, you’ll want to be sure to have your pet checked out to be sure.
Easing Back Into Exercise
If you and your walking partner have been limiting your walks during cold winter months, take it slow easing back into mileage in spring. Your pet, just like you, will need to build back up his endurance. If you gradually increase your distance and intensity on walks or jogs, you’ll give their bodies time to acclimate and avoid injuries.