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Aussie pet parents are overlooking at-home pet health checks

By Nadia Scurria|

New research has revealed Aussie pet owners are neglecting at-home health checks for their beloved fur babies.

A report released by PetSure with data from 2022 for 2023 shows pet owners are missing a trick when it comes to ensuring the health and happiness of their animals.

The findings showed just one in 10 pet owners provided at-home health checks for their pets, with ?things like brushing their pet's teeth or checking for fleas and ticks.

Despite the cost of living crisis, the report also showed 82 per cent of pet owners spend money spoiling their pets each month. ?

READ MORE: ?Common dog 'treat' vets warn is 'extremely dangerous'

Pets provide companionship and reduce our stress, so it's important we take care of them. (iStock)

"With pet ownership across Australia at a record high, companion animals continue to play a central role in our lives, but there is still a knowledge gap when it comes to pet health and the role pet insurance can play in helping you prepare for the unexpected," CEO of PetSure Alex Thomas says.

?The data analysed in the report shows the top five health conditions for dogs and cats จC the common household pets.

The top five dog diseases in 2022 included skin allergies, ear infections, arthritis, gastritis and diarrhoea.

For our feline friends, it was vomiting, gastrointestinal tract diseases, dental disease, diarrhoea and urinary tract disease.

"Like many pet owners, vets are animal lovers and they want the best for your fur baby, but pet parents need to do their due diligence. While pampering can provide enrichment for pets, it's simple things like regularly brushing your dog's teeth or checking for fleas and ticks that pet parents should prioritise," vet Dr Betty Chan says.

READ MORE: ?Warning issued over hidden danger that can harm your dog

In 2022, the average cost at the vet for vomiting treatment was $636. (Getty)

"Being proactive with a regular at-home health routine could help detect and address issues early on, resulting in better pet healthcare outcomes. In some cases, this could mean a health condition is less complex and costly to treat จC leading to a more positive experience for pets, their owners and vets," she continues.

If you're a tad guilty of not checking up on your pet's health at home, vets Dr Betty Chan and Dr Kylie provided a few tips and tricks to keep your cats and dogs as healthy as a horse.

?When it comes to dogs, there are a few easy ways we can make sure they're safe and healthy.

Regarding skin allergies, ?which were the number one health condition for dogs last year, the vets say to monitor closely and have regular check ups if your pet has any kind of skin condition.

It's important to also stay up-to-date with their flea treatments, which will largely avoid allergies that trigger itchy skin.

READ MORE: ?The telltale signs your cat is overweight - and what to do

Vet Dr Chan with her patient Rudy. (Supplied)

For cats, there are a few things you want to keep in mind.

While the number-one condition for cats in 2022 was vomiting, this may be a sign that something is going on in their gastrointestinal tract.

?Gastrointestinal tract diseases were the second highest condition for cats but there are a few things the vets recommend to keep them on a healthy path.

Feed them a high-quality vet recommended diet, avoid sudden changes in their diet จC it's best to introduce them to new food gradually จC and ?in case of any constipation, try and increase your cat's water intake.

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