Groom daily to keep your pet s coat clean and rid it of dander, which builds up in hot weather and contributes to heat problems. Brushing also provides the opportunity to inspect your pet s skin for rashes and insect bites. Take him for a check-up annually and be certain your vet provides heartworm medication. Heartworm kills and unless your pet is tested each year, the disease cannot be detected during the early stages. Avoid giving dogs medication that was intended for cats and vice versa.
Cats are extremely sensitive to ticks, fleas and treatments.
If your pet is a house animal, follow safety procedures that are used for small children. Keep harmful cleaners, cosmetics and poisonous houseplants out of your pet s sight. Cats love to chew plants and this habit can put their lives in peril. If traveling with a dog or cat, use common sense to keep them safe. Never allow them to ride in the back of an open pickup truck.