After 25+ years in practice: What veterinarians wish more pet owners would do

As pet owners, we all want our dogs and cats to live longer, healthier, happier lives. Yet after decades of seeing thousands of pets walk through clinic doors, many veterinarians notice the same preventable health issues appearing again and again.

The good news? Some of the most impactful things you can do for your pet don’t require expensive treatments or complicated routines. Small habits, done consistently, can make a significant difference to your pet’s health, comfort and longevity.

Here are some of the most common recommendations experienced veterinarians wish more pet owners would follow.

1. Add omega-3 fatty acids to your pet’s diet

Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most beneficial supplements available for many pets.

They play an important role in:

• Supporting joint health and mobility
• Maintaining healthy skin and coat condition
• Supporting heart health
• Reducing inflammation throughout the body
• Supporting cognitive function in ageing pets

Many modern pet diets contain higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3s, which can contribute to inflammatory processes over time.

Veterinarians commonly recommend high-quality fish oil or omega-3 supplements, particularly for senior pets, pets with arthritis, skin conditions, or inflammatory diseases.

As always, speak with your veterinarian before introducing supplements to ensure appropriate dosing for your pet’s size and health needs.

2. Prioritise hydration

Many pet owners underestimate the importance of hydration.

Even mild dehydration can impact a pet’s:

• Kidney function
• Energy levels
• Digestion
• Urinary tract health
• Overall wellbeing

This is particularly important for cats, who naturally have a lower thirst drive and often do not drink enough water.

Simple ways to encourage hydration include:

• Adding water to meals
• Feeding wet food alongside dry food
• Offering low-sodium bone broth
• Providing multiple water bowls around the home
• Using pet water fountains
• Offering pet-safe hydrating treats such as cucumber or watermelon in moderation

Proper hydration is one of the simplest ways to support long-term health.

3. Keep cats indoors or provide safe outdoor access

One of the strongest recommendations many veterinarians make is to keep cats indoors whenever possible.

Indoor cats generally face fewer risks from:

• Vehicle accidents
• Dog attacks
• Wildlife encounters
• Poisoning and toxins
• Infectious diseases
• Parasites
• Fighting with other cats

Studies have consistently shown that indoor cats often live significantly longer than outdoor cats.

That doesn’t mean cats should live boring lives.

Enrichment options include:

• Cat trees and climbing structures
• Puzzle feeders
• Window perches
• Interactive toys
• Enclosed outdoor cat runs
• Secure “catio” spaces

The goal is to provide stimulation while minimising unnecessary risks.

4. Don’t ignore dental health

Bad breath isn’t just unpleasant – it can be a sign of dental disease.

Dental disease is one of the most common health conditions veterinarians see, particularly in adult dogs and cats.

Untreated dental problems can lead to:

• Pain and discomfort
• Tooth loss
• Difficulty eating
• Gum infections
• Bacteria entering the bloodstream

Over time, chronic dental disease may affect major organs including the heart, kidneys and liver.

Good dental care includes:

• Regular tooth brushing
• Dental chews recommended by your veterinarian
• Dental-specific diets where appropriate
• Routine veterinary dental checks
• Professional dental cleaning when needed

By the age of three, many pets already show signs of dental disease, making prevention particularly important.

5. Don’t rely solely on dry kibble

Commercial kibble can be a convenient option, but many veterinarians encourage pet owners to think beyond simply filling a bowl with dry food.

Adding variety can help increase moisture intake and provide additional nutritional benefits.

Pet-safe additions may include:

• Cooked lean meats
• Sardines or oily fish 
• Blueberries
• Certain leafy greens
• Pumpkin
• Low-sodium bone broth

The key is ensuring any additions are safe, balanced and appropriate for your pet’s individual dietary needs.

Sudden dietary changes should always be avoided, and any significant changes should be discussed with your veterinarian.

6. Perform regular home health checks

You don’t need veterinary training to spot early warning signs.

Veterinarians often encourage pet owners to perform a simple “home health exam” every few weeks.

Check:

Teeth and gums

Look for:

• Bad breath
• Red gums
• Broken teeth
• Excess tartar

Skin and coat

Check for:

• Lumps and bumps
• Bald patches
• Excessive scratching
• Skin irritation

Ears

Watch for:

• Redness
• Odour
• Discharge
• Excessive head shaking

Paws and nails

Inspect for:

• Cracks
• Cuts
• Overgrown nails
• Foreign objects

Weight and body condition

Weight gain or loss is often one of the first indicators of underlying disease.

Mobility

Watch for:

• Stiffness
• Reluctance to jump
• Limping
• Reduced activity levels

Many conditions are easier – and often less expensive to treat when detected early.

Ditch plastic food and water bowls

Plastic bowls are common, but they can develop scratches over time that harbour bacteria.

For some pets, plastic bowls may also contribute to skin irritation around the mouth and chin.

Many veterinarians prefer:

• Stainless steel bowls
• Ceramic bowls
• Food-grade metal water bowls

Whatever bowl material you use, regular cleaning is essential.

Food and water bowls should be washed frequently to minimise bacterial build-up and maintain good hygiene.

Prevention, always

One of the biggest lessons veterinarians learn over decades of practice is that prevention consistently delivers better outcomes than waiting until a pet becomes seriously unwell.

Simple habits such as improving hydration, maintaining dental health, performing regular home checks and feeding a balanced diet can help identify problems earlier and support better long-term health.

No pet owner can prevent every illness or injury. However, taking proactive steps today can help your pet enjoy a healthier, happier life for many years to come.

Because when it comes to our pets, the small things we do consistently often make the biggest difference.