After four really hot summer months, there’s a lot to look forward to during the monsoon season. Both humans and pets, relish in the water paradise, from watching the little raindrops crawling on the window sill to the sweet joy of splashing in the puddles!
But down comes the rain accompanied by quite a few health issues. While you look forward to rejoicing with your pet in the rainy weather, it’s important to be extra cautious as a pet parent. Here are some common problems faced by pets and a quick fix to prevent d-raining the fun out of them!
Digestive Issues
Problem: The watery outdoors, however tempting they seem, entail a variety of bacterial microorganisms that are harmful and plenty in nature. These can cause loss of appetite, diarrhoea, fever, vomiting and indigestion, among other viral or fungal infections in your pet’s digestive system. A common source of tummy troubles in this season is a dirty bowl. As problematic as the puddles outside, a dirty bowl also encourages bacterial growth.
Solution: The key is to be extra careful of what they put in their mouth. The water they drink, their bowls and their immediate surroundings should be kept clean at all times. Your pet’s bowls can be kept elevated to avoid any insects from contaminating the water. Make sure their water is not left unattended for too long.
Pro-tip: use boiled drinking water and change it every few hours.
Skin Allergies
Problem: This season truly opens up too big a can of worms, quite literally. It is favourable weather for ticks and fleas to make a home in your dog’s coat, causing severe skin allergies if left unguarded. Pets are more likely to contract tick fever which could also result in kidney failure at times. Apart from the insect bites, bacterial and fungal infections can be detected during this period. Skin allergies can also show up as acne, irritation or skin redness.
Solution: Clean and groom your pet’s coat thoroughly. It is very important for them to be dried properly after their baths and outdoor walks. Ice cubes can be a soothing remedy for irritation caused by insect bites. While most skin infections can be treated with over-the-counter medication, it is best to consult your local vet if symptoms persist.
Ear-itating Infections
Problem: Flies cause just as much discomfort to pets as they do to humans. They don’t go away easily and might find a way to get in your pet’s ears. Really annoying, isn’t it?
Solution: While pet owners are advised to clean their pets’ ears only once a month usually, this season calls for extra caution. Hence, vets advocate cleaning your pets’ ears every day using a cotton bud.
Respiratory Diseases
Problem: Pets are susceptible to developing respiratory diseases showing symptoms of sneezing, coughing or breathing difficulties. Dogs and cats are both prone to catching “Kennel Cough,” a disease caused by bacteria along with humidity, stress, etc. Cough, loss of appetite, abundant secretion from the nose and dehydration are some of the symptoms.
Solution: Keeping their surroundings clean and giving them a bath regularly can keep respiratory diseases away. It is equally important to dry their furs and paws properly after the baths. In case of severe symptoms, immediately consult your local vet.
Paw Police
Problem: Exposure to dirty water during their walks can lead to loosening of the paw follicles, resulting in dermatitis – especially in dogs. Their paws could get swollen and itchy, causing a lot of pain. If muddy paws meet their tongue, that is another window for digestive issues to come in.
Solution: Wash with clean water and pat dry their paws after outdoor walks. To prevent mud collection, keep their nails clipped and hair trimmed.
Behavioural Issues
Problem: Pets dread lightning, thunderstorms and heavy downpour. They have thunderstorm anxiety. Their physical response to such anxiety or fear can be drooling, shivering or howling. Mentally, they seek some reassuring gestures that can calm their anxiety. They may not react well to being left with their human parents for long periods of time. Additionally, a cut-down in physical activity and outdoor walks during this season can cause restlessness in your pets, also affecting their appetite.
Solution: All pets have different needs, thus it is necessary to understand your pet’s needs and behaviour. Reassure your pet at such times with extra hugs, cuddles and soft kisses – a rewarding solution for both, the parent and the pooch. Playing indoor games allows them to use their pent-up energy, while also keeping them lively and active. Keep up their spirit! You can read our detailed guide on pet care tips to ace the monsoon season.
