What are the basic care when adopting a pet

Integrating a pet into the home means taking on different responsibilities for this new member of the family. This is why it is essential that everyone assumes their roles, even the “newcomer”. Whether it is a dog or a cat, seven aspects must be taken into account for a harmonious coexistence. Here is a guide, prepared by the Animal Protection Center of Madrid, to be able to enjoy these moments without surprises.

1- Choosing the animal

Before choosing the new member, it is important to ask yourself and other family members if they “really” want their incorporation and the reasons for this action. It is that when a pet is added, it is necessary to devote time to it, as well as patience, perseverance and, even at times, firmness in the face of its possible behavior.

In this sense, the experts noted the importance of evaluating the characteristics of each breed and providing them with the necessary care they need during the first part of their stay. That’s why they recommended adding a bed, feeder, and drinker; being that for dogs they incorporated a leash and collar, and for cats plastic containers for sanitary pebbles.

2- Food

Another essential aspect when integrating a new “four-legged” member into the family is their diet, which must be based on a balanced diet that meets their energy needs and provides them with adequate nutrients. Whether they are dogs or cats, the ideal is for them to consume dry food, adapted to each stage of development. Likewise, experts recommend avoiding raw foods, as they may bring parasites.

They also indicated the importance of consulting the veterinarian about their weight to avoid an increase. In addition, they warned that during pregnancy or lactation of dogs and cats, the ration should be increased, especially at this last stage. Since during the first week the amount of food needed should be increased 1.5 times, the second about 2 times, and the third up to 3 times.

3- Hygiene

Above bathrooms, experts differ on the frequency. While some say it should be no less than once a month, others say they should wash as needed, such as when their hair is dirty.

In the case of cats, they are generally less tolerant of bathing than dogs. But it is possible to get him to accept them and get used to them. Products for this action should always be those developed for pets.

Another central aspect, according to experts, is the brush. As they pointed out, this can be done daily to maintain your hygiene without damaging your skin. Referring to the nails, in the case of dogs they indicated that they do not wear out well, that is why they must be cut and the best option is to go to the veterinarian; while in cats there are scratching accessories that allow the nails to be in perfect condition.

4- Education

By nature, dogs are social and hierarchical animals; that is to say, from puppies they need to know and assume their role inside and outside the family. During this fundamental period, the behavior called “sensitization period” develops which lasts between 3 and 10 weeks. At this time, toddlers assimilate what is happening in their environment, in particular the socialization of the animal, which allows them to better accept other animals, both of their species and of others.

For experts, it is essential to teach them basic rules of coexistence by learning very simple obedience behaviors and to achieve this, you must say their name before giving them an order, which must be a short sentence. Bad habits such as biting also need to be corrected.

Meanwhile, the language with cats is different and, although there are typical postures, they mainly obey their instincts and are very easy to recognize.

5- Sexuality and reproduction

While female dogs can have their first forehead Between 6 and 10 months, cats can have several consecutive heats and their cycles are influenced by ambient temperature and sunlight.

Regarding vaginal bleeding, a normal behavior in bitches, it occurs in the first phase of the cycle and, although males are attracted, females are still not receptive. In cats, when they are in heat they are restless, they go from place to place, they hardly eat, they rub against the ground and meow constantly.

Power sterilize them, a surgical procedure is used that consists of the total or partial removal of the reproductive organs, which is performed in both men and women. Thanks to this strategy, their quality of life and life expectancy are increased and the possibility of developing uterine infections, tumors and diseases of the reproductive organs is reduced.

6- Veterinarian

Having chosen a trusted professional, it is necessary to take him for a check-up, since cats and dogs must be dewormed and vaccinated. The vaccination schedule is established by the veterinarian. In addition, as a general rule and in the absence of symptoms of disease, it is necessary to visit at least once a year.

7- Exercise

For our pets to be healthy and fit, they need to exercise regularly. As the experts recommend, in summer it is absolutely necessary to avoid the hottest hours. In addition, it is important to take into account that, like humans, dogs suffer from injuries, which is why their physical activity must be controlled and to ensure that they do not overdo exercise or perform no dangerous activities.

In the meantime, for cats that stay indoors all the time, it’s important to provide them with playful activities that meet their physical and mental needs.

Continue reading: