For many of us, pets are more than companions—they’re family. The deep bond we share with our cats and dogs often finds expression in the way we care for them, especially through food and treats. A tasty snack becomes a symbol of love and a reward for good behaviour, an increased portion of food shows our affection and makes them happy. But in our efforts to reward or spoil them just a little, we may unintentionally put their health at risk. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do to ensure our cats and dogs live long, active, and happy lives.

Why a Healthy Weight Matters

Being overweight can seriously impact a pet’s health. It increases the risk of diabetes, joint problems, heart and respiratory issues, and can even shorten their lifespan. For cats, excess weight can also reduce mobility and grooming ability. For dogs, it may affect their stamina, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. Keeping pets at an ideal weight not only supports physical health—it helps them feel more energetic and comfortable in their daily lives.

Top Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

1. Feed the Right Amount
   Use feeding guidelines on pet food packaging as a starting point, adjusting based on your pet’s activity level, age, and health. Use a scale or measuring cup to stay consistent.
2. Watch the Treats
   Treats should be no more than 10% of your pet’s daily energy intake. Consider healthier options or use part of their daily food ration as treats.
3. Stay Active Together
   Regular activity is essential. Daily playtime for cats and walks or play sessions for dogs help burn calories and strengthen your bond.
4. Weigh Regularly
   Monitor your pet’s weight routinely—monthly is ideal. Small changes can be managed more easily than major weight loss efforts later on.
5. Choose the Right Food
   A complete and balanced diet formulated for your pet’s life stage and lifestyle is key. Light or “weight management” foods can help in some cases, especially for pets prone to weight gain.

Every Pet is Unique

What works for one cat or dog may not be right for another. Always talk to your vet if you have concerns about your pet’s weight or diet. Together, you can create a plan that suits their individual needs.

Helping our pets maintain a healthy weight is one of the most meaningful ways we can care for them. With a little attention and consistency, you can keep your four-legged friend happy, healthy, and full of life.

Additional Resources

• FEDIAF Factsheet – Maintaining a Healthy Weight for your Cat
• FEDIAF Factsheet – Maintaining a Healthy Weight for your Dog
• Speak with your vet for tailored advice and support

The Hidden Dangers of Parasites

Parasites fall into two main categories: external parasites (like fleas and ticks) and internal parasites (like worms and protozoa). While they primarily affect pets, some can also spread to humans. That’s why regular prevention is key!

Fleas: More Than Just an Itchy Problem

Fleas can cause major discomfort for pets, leading to skin allergies and infections. But did you know they can also spread tapeworms? Because flea eggs and larvae hide in carpets, bedding, and outdoor spaces, getting rid of them requires more than just treating your pet—you’ll also need to clean your home thoroughly.

📌 Tip: Regularly vacuum your home and wash pet bedding in hot water to help prevent flea infestations.

How Parasites Affect People

Some pet parasites can be passed to humans, making prevention a shared responsibility.

• Toxoplasmosis & Cat Litter: Toxoplasma gondii spreads through cat faeces, so it’s important to clean litter boxes regularly and wash hands after handling them.
• Tick-Borne Diseases & Outdoor Safety: Ticks thrive in tall grass and wooded areas, so keep your yard well-maintained and use tick preventatives on your pets.

For more detailed information on zoonotic diseases, check out the CDC’s guide to pet-related infections.

Climate Change & Parasite Spread

• Rising temperatures allow parasites to thrive in new areas, meaning pet owners may need to adjust their prevention routines.

Spreading Awareness: Why It Matters

To help pet owners stay informed, initiatives like World Parasite Awareness Day are working to:

• Educate the Public: By sharing information on parasite risks and prevention, more pets and people can stay safe.
• Encourage Responsible Use: Product labels and packaging provide clear instructions for using a product effectively and safely, and vets can provide further advice. Owners should also follow any included instructions on how to properly dispose of any products after use, and any containers or packaging.

• Support Research: Continued studies on new treatments and vaccines will improve parasite control in the future.

Learn more about World Parasite Awareness Day.

Be Proactive!

Parasite prevention isn’t just about keeping your pet comfortable—it’s about protecting our shared One Health. By staying informed and using effective prevention strategies, you can keep your pets, your family, and your home safe from unwanted pests.

📌 Tip: Set a reminder to check your pet’s flea, tick, and worm prevention schedule to ensure they’re always protected!

Interactive Playtime

Regular interactive play is essential for maintaining your pet’s physical health, mental sharpness, and overall happiness. Engaging in fun activities not only prevents boredom but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet, fostering trust and companionship.

For dogs, interactive games such as fetch, tug-of-war, or flirt poles provide both exercise and mental stimulation. These activities help burn excess energy, improve coordination, and reinforce positive behaviours. Cats, being natural hunters, benefit from play that mimics stalking and chasing prey. Toys like laser pointers, feather wands, or small moving objects encourage them to pounce, run, and stay active. Rotating their toys regularly and incorporating interactive puzzles can prevent monotony and keep them mentally stimulated.

Mental Enrichment

Just as physical activity is essential for your pet’s health, mental stimulation plays an equally important role in keeping them happy and well-rounded. Challenging your pet’s mind helps prevent boredom, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being.

Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are excellent tools to engage your pet’s problem-solving skills, offering a fun and rewarding challenge. These toys not only provide mental exercise but also slow down mealtime, encouraging your pet to work for their food, which can help with weight management and prevent overeating.

Sensory Exploration

Providing your pet with opportunities for sensory exploration is a fantastic way to prevent boredom and keep their minds engaged. Exposure to new sights, sounds, and smells helps stimulate their senses, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

For dogs, one of the best ways to encourage sensory enrichment is through “sniffaris”—walks where they are given the freedom to sniff and investigate their surroundings at their own pace. Unlike a typical walk focused on exercise, sniffaris allow dogs to engage their powerful sense of smell, which is a crucial part of how they experience the world. Letting them pause and explore different scents along the way can provide mental stimulation and satisfy their natural curiosity.

Cats, too, can benefit from sensory enrichment. While many cats are content staying indoors, they can still enjoy new experiences through supervised outdoor time in a secure area, such as a catio or harness training for safe walks.

Designing an Enriching Environment for Your Pet

Creating a stimulating and comfortable environment for your pet is essential to their overall well-being. The way their space is arranged can significantly impact their mental and physical health, helping to prevent boredom and promote natural behaviours.

General Guidelines

Before diving into specific techniques, it’s essential to highlight some general tips to create the best possible environment for your pet:

• Keep Calm and Carry On!
  Staying calm is a key part of the process, as your demeanour can influence your pet’s behaviour. Remaining composed can help ensure you’re prepared to handle any reaction they might have.
• Choose the Right Environment
  Creating a safe, quiet space with minimal distractions can make the experience much more manageable.
• Establish a Routine
  Whether the medication is short-term or long-term, it’s crucial to establish a consistent routine by administering it at the same time each day. This consistency fosters a sense of safety and reliability for your pet.
• Pair It with a Positive Activity
  Use your most enthusiastic voice to praise your pet. Before and after giving the medication, engage them in an activity they love, like a walk or playtime. This can help reduce stress and make the experience more enjoyable.
• Don’t Forget Treat Time!
  After the medication, reward your pet with high-value treats to reinforce a positive association with the process.

Oral Medication: Pills

• The Classic “Wrap It Up” Method
  Use a treat your pet loves to create a small “sandwich” with the pill hidden in the middle. This sneaky snack can make the process easier and stress-free.
  Be cautious with pets who have allergies—ensure the treats are suitable for them. In such cases, always consult your veterinarian for advice.
• Crushing and Hiding
  This well-known method can be a lifesaver. However, always check with your veterinarian to ensure the medication can safely be crushed. If allowed, mix the crushed medication with water or another familiar, tasty liquid to make it more palatable for your pet.

Injectable Medication

If your veterinarian has prescribed injectable medication to be administered at home, it’s vital to carefully follow the instructions provided.

To make the experience as stress-free as possible, follow the general guidelines mentioned earlier.

• Keep Them Distracted
  Offer high-value treats during the injection to divert their attention and make the experience less intimidating.
• Handle with Care
  Administering injectable medication requires extra caution. Seek assistance or use a towel or blanket to gently restrain your pet, ensuring they stay still during the procedure.

Manage Visitors in the house:

Some pets may become anxious or stressed with a lot of visitors. If you have a house full of relatives, ensure your pet has a quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Remind guests not to feed your pets any table scraps and to be cautious when opening doors, as pets may try to escape.

The Christmas table is set, the food smells amazing, and family members are gathered to enjoy the celebration. Before sitting down together, it’s important to remind everyone that certain human food can be toxic to pets. Whether you have pets or are visiting a home with them, knowing this information can help prevent sneaky treats being given under the table and keep our furry friends safe.

Beware Chocolate and Sweets:

Over the festive season, it may be more tempting to give your pet a human food treat.  However, treats such as chocolate can be toxic for pets.  Even small amounts of chocolate can be extremely dangerous causing vomiting, diarrhoea and sometimes more serious problems.

Christmas Dinner Leftovers Should be Kept for People:

Human food, especially the rich and fatty dishes typically enjoyed during the holidays, can lead to sickness and digestive problems in our pets. Additionally, cooked bones from a turkey or goose, that people might think is a nice treat, can splinter and puncture the digestive tract. If you want to treat your pet, choose specially formulated commercial treats.  It is recommended that no more than 10% of a pet’s calorific intake over a week or day come from treats.

After the Christmas feast, it’s probably time to exchange gifts and enjoy the beautifully decorated, festive atmosphere of the house. However, this part of the celebration also comes with a few hazards for your pets that require extra attention.

Tinsel and Tree Decorations

Pets love to play, particularly with new ‘toys’ and festive decorations such as baubles, tinsel, tree lights plus wrapping paper and ribbons can seem like attractive playthings to curious pets.  However, they can be very dangerous if broken or ingested. Also, be extra careful to keep batteries somewhere safe.

Poisonous Plants

Poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and ivy are toxic to cats and dogs causing stomach upset. Watch out for the sharp needles on Christmas trees too.

Loud noises and fireworks

To keep pets safe and calm during fireworks or other noisy events, it’s important to prepare for the potential stress caused by loud sounds. You can find more information in our previous blog and on the FECAVA website.

Seek Veterinary Care if you’re concerned:

While we can do our best to pet-proof our homes during the holiday season, accidents can still happen. If you ever suspect that your pet has ingested something harmful, consult your veterinarian immediately. Rapid intervention can make all the difference in ensuring a happy and healthy holiday season for your pets.

Extra Reading:

• The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation’s Guide to ‘Pets and Poisons’
• EuropeanPetFood’s Guide to a Pet’s Nutritional Needs
• FECAVA Advice for Pet Owners During Fireworks Season

Create a Cozy, Safe Space

Giving your pet a dedicated safe space can be incredibly calming during noisy events. For dogs, a crate or a bed with their favourite blanket and toys can be comforting. Cats and rabbits often feel more secure in smaller spaces, so a covered box or a cozy corner will do the trick. Think of this area as their “happy hideaway” – a place where they can escape the noise.

Turn Up the Calming Sounds

Drown out loud noises with gentle, calming sounds in your home. Playing soft music, white noise, or even leaving the TV on low can help mask sudden booms or claps. Classical music and soft sounds are particularly good at relaxing pets.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed

Loud noises can make pets instinctively seek an escape route, even in familiar spaces. Before any noisy event, ensure that all doors, windows, and pet doors are securely closed. This will not only help block out the noise but also prevent your pet from attempting to dash out. Make sure that your pet is microchipped, that can increase the chances of your pet being returned to you in case they get lost.

Consult Your Vet for Severe Anxiety

If your pet’s noise-related anxiety is really intense, talk to your veterinarian. In some cases, vets may recommend anti-anxiety medications or behavioural therapy to help your pet cope with loud noises. This is especially helpful for pets who experience ongoing stress, like dogs with thunderstorm anxiety or cats fearful of sudden sounds.

Loud noises can be distressing for our fur-babies, but a few calming steps can make a world of difference. Every pet is unique, so try a mix of these tips to see what helps your furry friend the most. For more in-depth advice on pet anxiety, check out the Humane Society’s Guide to Pet Anxiety.

Dogs can help law enforcement with their work

Police dogs have saved many lives with their unique skills and bravery. They are loyal, watchful, and protective of their police officer counterparts and are often deemed an important and irreplaceable part of many police departments.

Police dogs today are trained in specific areas, including: tracking criminal suspects or missing persons; detecting a specific substance such as explosives, drugs or illegal wildlife; maintaining order and crowd control; or finding injured or trapped people; and even finding dead bodies.

Dogs can smell diseases in people

Dogs have a very powerful sense of smell and use their noses to “see” the world. Their noses are so powerful that they can notice small changes in how we smell, meaning they can sniff out signs of disease.

Dogs can be trained to help with practical tasks that many people with disabilities find difficult or impossible to do, such as:

• Opening and closing doors
• Helping with dressing and undressing
• Retrieving items such as mobile telephones or dropped articles like keys or a bag
• Loading and emptying the washing machine
• Pressing a pedestrian crossing button
• Reaching up to shop-counters with items such as a wallet

Dogs can help guide the visually impaired

Guide dogs help visually impaired people feel more confident and independent as they go about their daily routine. They help their companions by helping them walk safely in public places, guiding them around objects and people, avoiding trip hazards, and locating shop doors and crossings. These dependable dogs spend up to two years training to learn their jobs perfectly!

Dogs can help the hearing impaired

Hearing dogs are raised similarly to guide dogs for the blind. Their job is to alert hearing impaired people to various sounds. They can stop their person from stepping off the curb if there is a car coming, physically alert to alarms, door bells/knocks, and other noises that could be relevant to the person.

Dogs can help with psychiatric challenges

Dogs can be trained to help people coping with various mental health issues. PTSD dogs for example help those suffering post traumatic stress disorder. They may be trained to walk ahead of their person or turn on the lights in a room before the person enters.

All kind of animals can provide all kinds of therapy for people

A variety of animals can work as therapy animals with the most common being dogs and cats, rabbits, horses, and donkeys. We’ve even heard of therapy pigs and mini horses! There are several therapy approaches in which animals can be involved, Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) or Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI).

The exact type of animal therapy can vary greatly depending on what condition the person has, the type of animal, and what kind of therapy they provide. For example, therapeutic visitation animals are often pets that are trained and taken to hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and other locations, to provide comfort and joy for people living away from home due to mental or physical illnesses. Animal assisted therapy animals often work with physical and occupational therapists in a rehabilitation setting. Facility therapy animals are often dedicated to a specific nursing home or assisted living facility to assist residents with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other mental illnesses.

Animals assisting with therapy is built on the premise of the human-animal-bond (what we call #PetPower). Interacting with animals truly has many benefits on our physical and mental health! I think we can all agree that assistance animals are pure #PetPower! If you are able to, consider supporting your local assistance animal organisation. And if you want to learn more about how assistance animals are trained, read this.

 Pre- trip preparation:

• When booking accommodation make sure you look for a pet-friendly hotel or rental house
• Make sure that vaccinations and parasite protection are up-to-date, and your pet has been microchipped and has their ID tag
• Take a first aid kit for emergencies and any other necessary medication and medical records

Travelling by car:

• Make sure your pet is comfortable and used to riding in the car
• Use a restraint or carrier to keep the pet safe while driving
• Never leave your pet alone in a parked car, even if it is not hot outside
• Take a break at least every four hours, just like we do dogs need to go to the bathroom
• Ensure you have enough water available during the journey
• Avoid overheating at all times

Traveling by plane:

• Check the airline’s pet travel policies to ensure they can actually fly with you, and if they can be in the cabin or have to be in the hold
• Also check for specific breeds allowed onboard, as Brachycephalic dogs and cats for instance are often not allowed on some airlines, due to the higher risk of respiratory distress during the flight

If you are unable to take your dog or cat with you when traveling, there are several options to ensure they are well cared for while you are away… 

• Professional pet sitters can look after your dogs or cats in your home so they feel at ease in their usual habitat
• There are also nice kennels or catteries that offer comfortable accommodation, a social environment and supervision by trained people. In this case it’s often advisable to organise a ‘trial’ stay for few days before the holiday, to make sure your pet will be happy there.
• Family and friends can also help out and sometimes your pet will be most comfortable with people they know.

Check out the FECAVA Summer advice here.

Europe’s New Facts & Figures

Recently released data from one of the Pet Alliance partners, FEDIAF, the European association representing the Pet Food Industry, has confirmed that over 50% of Europeans now benefit from the companionship of a furry friend.  This is an amazing figure, very reassuring but perhaps not so surprising for pet lovers at the Pet Alliance!

Europe’s Companion League

Among the diverse array of pets, cats reign supreme in Europe. With a population of 129 million, they are the most popular companion animals, found in 27% of households. Dogs follow closely, with 106 million in 25% of European homes. These numbers reflect the deep affection Europeans have for their furry friends.

Reasons for Ownership

The Pet Alliance is delighted to see that so many Europeans benefit from ownership.  We are also not surprised that the benefits are scientifically proven!  Here are a few reasons why we choose to add pets to our families:

1. Companionship is a key motive as pets bring joy to our lives, provide emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness. A study conducted among 6000 people during lockdown, investigated links between pet ownership, mental health and loneliness.  The results overwhelmingly confirmed that pets helped them cope better. Studies have also looked at the benefits of other animals such as fish and research has shown that they can help improve mood and encourage relaxation. 
2. Pets encourage physical activity and social interaction.  They also contribute to a sense of community. In January 2024, research from the University of Western Australia among 600 children confirmed that girls who have a dog spent almost an hour more being active per day, suggesting dog ownership could help curb childhood obesity. Additionally, a study of 2600 pet owners across Australia and the US confirmed that pet owners were more likely to get to know people in their neighbourhood.

3. Owning a pet also teaches responsibility and instils empathy among children. There is lots of excellent research on the benefits of pets for children. A huge study of 31,453 children in Japan – with 36% owning a pet – confirmed that pet ownership was associated with better emotional expression in later childhood. Pets can also boost chidlren’s positive emotions and reduce anxiety. 

A Future with Pets

Overall, pet ownership enriches the lives and enhances the wellbeing of adults and children across Europe. As households continues to embrace the companionship of pets, we are confident that the growing bond between humans and their pets will foster a healthier, happier society.

Summer is a fun season because it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy activities with our pets. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities and adventures with our furry friends.

Dogs are known to cool down differently than people do – dogs pant to keep cool and sweat through their paws, cats clean and lick themselves as a method to cool down with their saliva.

• Provide enough water: fresh drinking water should always be available. Water can also be provided by way of ice cubes, be creative and make an ice-pop for your dog or cat as a fun treat or toy.
• Provide access to cool places, shade and shelter. There are special cooling mats for pets, but simple cooling tricks such as popping a plastic water bottle in the freezer for them can also help.
• It might seem like a good idea to be outside in the fresh air, but  in the hottest moments of the day, beaches or open parks are not always a good idea as there is no shade.
• Avoid intensive exercise during the day. Dogs suffer faster from heat than people, so schedule exercises in the early morning or late evening. Dogs often do not know their own limits and will keep on playing fetch with a ball until they overheat.
•  Brush your dog or cat regularly, but do not shave them! Their fur is a protection against the cold but also against the heat, as it works as an isolating layer.
• Short-haired breeds can get sunburned, so use a pet-safe sunscreen. Not sure if your pet needs sunscreen? Ask your vet! Be extra careful if your cat has white ear tips as there is a link between sunburn and malignant tumours in cats. In these cats the use of sunscreen is a must.
• Pay extra attention to their paws! A hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so it’s always better walk on the grass or in the shade.
• Pay extra attention to hygiene. Warm weather makes Bacteria and Algae grow rapidly. So be careful with water in puddles or ponds. And don’t leave open pet food packs outside the refrigerator for too long. Always remember to thoroughly clean their food and water bowls daily..
• In summer we also see more parasites like ticks and fleas: ask your veterinarian to advise you on the best protection products for your pets as they are the experts.
• Lastly, but very importantly: NEVER leave pets alone in parked cars, even when you leave the window cracked open! The inside of a car can quickly reach dangerously high temperatures. If you see a pet in a closed vehicle, try to contact the owner of the car or the police to save the pet.

Prevention and early diagnostics

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for keeping your pet happy and healthy. These visits help prevent diseases and detect any issues in their early stages. Not only does early detection lead to better outcomes for our beloved pets, but it also means less financial costs, reduced stress, and smoother treatment processes for both pets and their owners. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, routine deworming, dental checks and physical exams are important components of preventing diseases. Regular veterinary checks can also lower your animal’s stress when visiting a vet.

Vaccination

For both cats and dogs vaccination is key in preventing life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are separated into core (strongly recommended), non-core (optional) and not recommended vaccines. Core vaccines are considered vaccines that all dogs throughout the world must receive, at recommended intervals.

For dogs, core vaccines typically include protection against:
• Canine distemper virus (CDV)
• Canine adenovirus (CAV; types 1 and 2)
• Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) and its variants

Core vaccines for cats include:
• Feline panleukopenia (FPV),
• Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
• Feline calicivirus (FCV)
Additionally, rabies vaccination is considered a core vaccine for cats and dogs in many regions and is often a necessity if you want to travel with your dog or cat. For more information consult your vet to ensure your animal buddy gets the necessary protection.

Regular check-ups could save you money

Annual check-ups and preventive care are essential for keeping pets healthy, but also could save you money. Routine examinations can identify concerns before they worsen, potentially sparing you from expensive treatments down the line. More information here.

Less stressful vet visit

Most pets feel anxious during vet visits, and some may even show aggression due to fear. Using treats before and during check-ups can create a positive association with the experience. “Happy visits” at the clinic can put your pet at ease, making vet trips a more positive experience. Don’t hesitate to consult with your vet for more tips on easing your pet’s stress during visits and check out these useful tips.
Afterall, regular vet check-ups are essential for your pet’s health, detecting issues early, save you money in the long run and allow you to spend longer quality time with your companion. So why wait, book your next check-up now!