How to prepare your pet for Spring: 5 hazards to avoid and 4 activities to enjoy
After a long winter, springtime brings a sense of rebirth and everyone is filled with joy! But before you start planning what you’ll do first, it’s necessary to be aware of the potential dangers for your pets—whether it’s parasites, allergies or toxic plants. Learn about the top five springtime hazards, as well as some safe activities for dogs and cats!
- Fleas and ticks. While they’re a problem all year round, fleas and ticks are way more active as the weather heats up. Not only are these pesky pests more active, but we are too. This means more opportunities for these critters to hitch a ride! Causing more than just itchiness, they can also transmit disease. For example, fleas can transmit tapeworm and Bartonella bacteria, and ticks can transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The best way to protect your pet is with flea and tick preventives. Ask your veterinarian which parasite preventive would be best for your pet.
- Heartworm. As things heat up, mosquitoes emerge from their winter hiding places and begin buzzing about. While people aren’t affected by heartworm, our cats and dogs are at risk of developing this serious disease after a mosquito bite. The easiest way to combat this disease is to prevent it from occurring by using one of the many preventives available to protect your pet.
- Toxic plants. Tulips, daffodils and lilies, such as Easter lilies, are popular in spring bouquets and potted plants at this time of year. But these harmless-looking plants can actually be toxic to pets if ingested. Symptoms of plant poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and in severe cases, organ failure. Lilies are especially dangerous to cats. Remove toxic plants from inside your home and plant your garden with pet-safe choices such as sunflowers, zinnias, petunias and alyssum.
- Allergies. Just like people, our pets can have environmental allergies to pollen and mold. Unlike people, your pet likely won’t have a runny nose or watery eyes, but you may notice that they seem extremely itchy. Itchy ears and paws are common allergy signs, and sometimes you may notice your pet sneezing or shedding excessively. Contact your veterinarian right away if you notice signs of allergies in your pet.
- Garden chemicals. We all want a lush lawn and an array of beautiful flowers! But some of the products we may use, such as pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers, pose risks to pets if they’re ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Read labels carefully and choose pet-friendly or natural products if possible. Apply chemicals at times when your pet is indoors and restrict their access to treated areas until the product has dried. Always store chemicals securely.
Looking for fun and safe activities with your pet?
As the days get longer and warmer, you may want to spend more time outdoors with your pet!
- Spring is a perfect time to try outdoor exploration with your cat on a harness. Let your cat sniff and explore while you provide guidance and ensure their safety.
- Take leisurely walks on nature trails with your dog and allow them to stop and smell the roses…or whatever it is that they can smell! While you check out the sights of spring, they can check out the smells.
- As the birds begin to return to your yard, set up a spot where your cat can bask in the sun and watch birds and other wildlife. Install a bird bath outside a window to attract more wildlife for your cat to watch.
- Set up a backyard obstacle course for your dog or play fetch to provide exercise and mental stimulation.
By doing a little planning and being aware of potential springtime hazards, you and your pet can enjoy the spring season.
Questions about the best flea, tick and heartworm preventives? Ask your VCA veterinarian for advice.
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