Preventive wellness care is vital for maintaining your pet’s health, increasing their well-being, and preventing diseases. Annual veterinary exams, vaccinations, parasite control, proper nutrition, and routine grooming are the essential preventive care components. Our Cupertino Animal Hospital team explains common diseases you can prevent in your furry friend through diligent wellness care.

Canine parvovirus

Parvovirus, commonly referred to as parvo, is a highly contagious virus that affects unvaccinated dogs, particularly puppies. Parvo spreads when a dog comes into contact with infected feces or contaminated environments. Signs include severe diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and dehydration. Prompt veterinary care is crucial as parvo can be deadly, especially in young or immune-compromised dogs. 

Prevention: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent parvovirus. Puppies should receive a vaccination series starting between 6 and 8 weeks of age, with boosters every three to four weeks until they are between 16 and 20 weeks of age. Adult dogs require regular booster shots as well.

Rabies in cats and dogs

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous systems in mammals, including people and pets. The virus is primarily transmitted through an infected animal’s bite, with their saliva carrying the virus. 

Prevention: The rabies vaccine is required by law in most states for dogs and sometimes cats. The vaccination is given at your pet’s annual wellness exam every year or every three years, depending on the vaccine type. Keeping your pet away from wildlife can also reduce their rabies risk.

Heartworm disease in pets

Heartworm disease is a serious condition caused by parasitic worms (Dirofilaria immitis) in affected pets’ hearts, lungs, and associated blood vessels. This disease is transmitted through an infected mosquito’s bite. In dogs, signs include coughing, fatigue, decreased appetite, and weight loss; advanced cases can lead to heart failure. The disease can manifest in cats as respiratory problems, vomiting, or sudden death. 

Prevention: Our Cupertino Animal Hospital team prescribes monthly heartworm preventive medications that are highly effective in preventing this serious problem. Our team also recommends annual heartworm testing for dogs to ensure they remain heartworm-free.

Distemper in cats and dogs

Feline panleukopenia (FPV), also known as feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the feline parvovirus. The virus spreads through contact with infected cats or contaminated items such as food bowls and bedding. Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a contagious viral disease affecting dogs. Transmission typically occurs through contact with infected dogs or their secretions, including saliva, urine, and blood, and airborne exposure.

Prevention: Vaccination for both cats and dogs is the surest way to prevent your pet from contracting distemper. Cats should receive the core vaccine series, starting between 6 and 8 weeks of age, with boosters, as our veterinarian recommends. Like cats, dogs receive the distemper vaccine as part of their core vaccinations, starting between 6 and 8 weeks of age, with boosters, as our team recommends. 

Dental disease in pets

Dental disease is caused by plaque and tartar buildup and eventual tooth decay. Most cats and dogs older than age 3 have periodontal disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and systemic infections that harm the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

Prevention: Our team recommends daily toothbrushing with a pet-formulated toothpaste, annual dental exams, and professional dental cleanings conducted by our veterinarian. Dental chews or toys and a high-quality, balanced diet can also help maintain your furry friend’s oral health. 

Obesity in pets

Obesity contributes to several medical conditions and a shortened lifespan. Obesity in pets is typically caused by overfeeding and inadequate exercise, potentially leading to diabetes, arthritis, musculoskeletal issues, and heart disease.

Prevention: Feeding your pet high-quality, nutritious food in the correct portions and providing daily exercise are key to managing their weight. During your pet’s exam, our veterinarian will assess your furry pal’s weight and body condition score and offer suggestions on weight management to prevent obesity-related problems. 

Flea and tick diseases in pets

Flea and tick diseases in pets can pose significant health risks. Fleas can cause dermatitis and anemia, especially in young or small pets, and transmit tapeworms. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. 

Prevention: Regularly using our veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventives is crucial for preventing parasitic illnesses. Additionally, perform regular skin checks on your four-legged friend after outdoor activities.

Preventive wellness care is integral for keeping your pet healthy and preventing various diseases. Regular veterinary exams, vaccinations, parasite control, and proper nutrition are fundamental to significantly reduce your pet’s health issue risk. By prioritizing wellness care, you help your pet live a long, healthy, and happy life. Contact our Cupertino Animal Hospital team to learn more about disease prevention strategies for pets.