Resources: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/oa05nw/veterinarians_of_reddit_what_is_something_most/

As pet owners, we all want the best for our pets. But often, without knowing it, we may be missing out on some simple actions that could significantly improve their quality of life. Thanks to advice shared by veterinarians on platforms like Reddit, we have valuable insights into what truly matters when it comes to pet care. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to make your pets’ lives better, going beyond just the basics of feeding and providing shelter.
Whether you are a dog owner, cat enthusiast, or have smaller animals like rabbits or guinea pigs, these tips from experienced veterinarians will help you provide the best care possible for your beloved companions.
1. Quality Time Over Expensive Toys
While it’s tempting to shower our pets with the latest toys and gadgets, veterinarians often emphasize that what pets really need is quality time with their humans. Fancy products may temporarily distract them, but they don’t replace the emotional and mental stimulation that comes from interacting with their owners.
Spending time on the floor, engaging with your pets in meaningful ways, and creating moments of bonding are simple actions that can make a profound difference. Whether it’s playing fetch with your dog or sitting on the couch petting your cat, these interactions establish a deeper connection and provide mental stimulation.
Even for small animals like guinea pigs and rabbits, simply letting them roam outside of their cages for a while can have a big impact on their happiness. Give them the freedom to explore in a safe, supervised space, and you’ll see how much more engaged and lively they become.
2. Early Handling for Puppies and Kittens
Veterinarians often stress the importance of handling pets from a young age, particularly puppies and kittens. Early handling helps animals become comfortable with being touched, which makes future vet visits, grooming, and even playtime easier for everyone involved.
When you handle young animals frequently, they become accustomed to having their paws, ears, and mouths touched. This is especially important for breeds prone to ear infections, as you’ll need to administer ear drops or medication in the future. Getting pets used to teeth brushing early on is also a significant advantage, as dental care plays a critical role in maintaining their overall health.
Beyond handling, training young pets to accept gentle restraint is crucial. If you teach a puppy or kitten that restraint is not a threat, you’ll reduce the chance of them becoming fearful or aggressive during necessary grooming or medical procedures as they age.
3. Dental Care Is Critical
One of the most overlooked aspects of pet care is dental hygiene. Many pet owners assume that if their pet continues to eat normally, there’s no issue with their teeth. However, veterinarians highlight the fact that pets can suffer from severe dental disease and continue eating out of necessity, often hiding their discomfort.
Infections caused by abscessed teeth can spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs like the heart. Therefore, regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential. If your vet recommends extracting rotten teeth, it is often the kindest option for your pet. Animals can still eat comfortably without all their teeth, and many pet owners report that their pets appear rejuvenated and more energetic after painful teeth are removed.
For pet owners who want to be proactive, establishing a routine of daily teeth brushing is the gold standard for maintaining oral health. While it may take some time to get your pet used to it, the long-term benefits are worth the effort.

4. Stop Using Tiny Cages for Small Pets
Small pets such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds are often housed in cages that are too small for their needs. According to veterinarians, the cages sold in pet stores are usually far below the minimum space requirements for these animals to live happily and healthily.
Small animals need room to move around, explore, and engage in their natural behaviors. A cramped cage can lead to stress, boredom, and a decline in their overall well-being. If you have small pets, do your research and invest in larger enclosures that give them enough space to thrive.
Additionally, for pets like guinea pigs, rabbits, and birds, allowing them time outside their cages in a safe environment is beneficial. Supervised playtime in a secure area lets them stretch their legs and enjoy some freedom, which greatly enhances their quality of life.
5. Don't Delay Veterinary Care for Masses or Lumps
One piece of advice that veterinarians often give is to bring your pet in for a checkup at the first sign of any unusual lumps or masses. It’s natural for pet owners to feel hesitant about medical procedures, but delaying treatment can lead to more invasive and expensive surgeries later on, particularly if the mass turns out to be cancerous.
When a mass is small, it can be removed more easily and with less risk to the pet. Early detection often results in quicker recovery times and better outcomes. This is especially true for lumps on sensitive areas like the eyelids or feet, where large tumors can complicate surgery.
6. Invest in Preventive Care for Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition in aging pets, but there are preventive measures that can delay its onset and ease its symptoms. Veterinarians recommend considering a series of injections such as Cartrophen, Zydax, or pentosan polysulfate as pets age. These injections are relatively affordable and can help maintain joint health, slow the progression of arthritis, and keep your pet comfortable.
Starting this treatment when your pet turns 8 years old, even if they are not showing obvious signs of arthritis, is a proactive way to support their long-term mobility and well-being.
7. Regular Checkups Are Essential
It’s easy to assume that a pet is healthy if they seem energetic and happy, but veterinarians caution against this assumption. Many pets, particularly dogs and cats, are experts at hiding pain and discomfort. Regular veterinary checkups, at least once a year, are vital for catching underlying health issues early.
Conditions like dental disease, arthritis, and heart problems can develop slowly and without obvious symptoms. By the time you notice signs of illness, the condition may be more advanced. Regular checkups ensure that your pet receives preventive care and timely treatment for any developing issues.

8. Focus on Quality of Life, Not Just Quantity
While many pet owners aim to extend their pets’ lives, veterinarians remind us that focusing on the quality of their life is just as important. Pets thrive when they are integrated into their owners’ lives, receiving regular interaction, mental stimulation, and affection.
Simple activities like taking your dog for a walk, playing hide-and-seek with your cat, or just sitting together during downtime can make a huge difference. Pets get bored, just like humans do, and they rely on us for their entertainment and happiness. Including your pet in daily activities and making time to play with them helps maintain their mental and emotional health.
9. Watch Out for Hidden Dangers
Veterinarians are also quick to point out common household dangers that pet owners may not be aware of. Something as simple as leaving a potato chip bag within reach can pose a suffocation risk, especially for curious dogs. Medications, cleaning products, and toxic plants like lilies can also be hazardous if ingested by pets.
Being mindful of what’s accessible to your pets and keeping potentially dangerous items out of their reach can prevent accidents and emergencies.
10. Diet and Weight Management
One of the most practical ways to improve a pet’s life is by managing their diet and keeping them at a healthy weight. Veterinarians emphasize that thin pets tend to live longer, healthier lives than overweight ones. Using a Body Condition Score (BCS) chart can help you assess whether your pet’s weight is in the ideal range.
Crash diets are not recommended, but gradual, healthy weight loss can improve mobility and reduce the risk of diseases like diabetes and arthritis. Discuss your pet’s diet with your veterinarian to ensure they are getting the right balance of nutrients without excess calories.
11. Be Kind to Your Veterinarian
Lastly, veterinarians want pet owners to remember that they, too, are human and deeply care about the well-being of their patients. While visits to the vet can be stressful, being kind and understanding to your veterinarian fosters a positive relationship that benefits both you and your pet.
If finances are a concern, don’t hesitate to have an open conversation with your vet about what you can afford. They can often work with you to create a care plan that fits your budget without compromising your pet’s health.

Improving the lives of our pets doesn’t require expensive products or complicated strategies. By simply dedicating time to engage with them, being proactive about their health, and taking small preventive steps, we can ensure that our pets live long, happy, and healthy lives. Veterinarians of Reddit offer valuable insights that remind us of the basics: love, attention, and regular care are the best gifts we can give our pets.
Incorporating these practices into your daily routine will not only enhance your pet’s well-being but also strengthen the bond you share with them. After all, our pets are more than just animals—they’re family.
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