Everyone can feel that change in the air.  Spring is almost here!  I’m sure our furry friends can feel it too.  Excited to enjoy longer days and warmer weather with the human parents.  But, with the change of seasons there are things to consider and prepare for.

Cat parent, dog parent, or both, understanding the changes that come with spring will help you navigate the best ways to stay healthy, happy and safe this spring.

Spring cleaning and your pet

Spring is the beginning of flea and tick season. As temperatures rise, these parasites become more active and it becomes crucial that we focus on prevention. For natural tips on flea prevention read our blog 5 Ways to keep Fleas at bay Naturally.

Spring and your dog

Have you ever noticed your dog suddenly has more energy when spring sets in?  This is a great clue that it’s time to increase your exercise routine.  Take it slow at first because, just like us, your dog may be a little ‘out of shape’ after the slower winter months. Short walks are a good start and then gradually build up, to prevent injuries and exhaustion.

Allergies affect our dogs in spring, just like they affect us humans. The signs to look out for are: excessive scratching, red or watery eyes, sneezing, and skin irritation. Some of the most common allergens are tree pollen, grass, and blooming flowers. A ¼ cup of nettle tea added to your pets food will help in the allergy season. 

Shedding season!  That’s right, the warmer weather means shedding! It is more important than ever to brush regularly now.  Yes, we want to minimize loose fur around the house, but we also want to prevent matting and skin problems. If you dog has a particularly thick coat you may choose to go for professional grooming to help them stay comfortable as the weather gets warmer. Both dogs and cats can benefit from this.  Regular brushing helps remove their winter undercoats AND prevents matting. If your dog or cat is a long-haired breed you know what I’m talking about!  Get that brush out and make life easier for you and your pet!

Check your garden (and neighbourhood) for spring hazards. Toxins are a big problem at this time of year with fertilizers, pesticides, and even certain spring flowers that can be toxic to dogs. Choose natural options such as vinegar for your weeds.  Quash is a more natural alternative to the pet lethal Blitzem.

Spring and your cat

If you have an indoor cat, be mindful that they may begin to experience increased restlessness when they notice the bustling activity outside their windows. Try to enrich their environment with new toys, puzzle feeders, or even a secure outdoor enclosure at this time.

Outdoor cats, on the other hand, are presented with both opportunities and risks. Yes,  they enjoy exploring and hunting, but there is also increased risk of encounters with: other cats, vehicles etc.  Things to consider: if you live close to a busy road for example, is your fence high enough?  Can you create a safer, walled off outdoor area for your cat?

Kitten season!  This means cats can become more vocal and restless if they're not spayed or neutered. If your cat hasn’t been spayed or neutered spring is the ideal time to get this procedure booked in to help control pet overpopulation. Make sure they have definitely reached the end of their growing phase if you have a kitten (or puppy) so as to avoid endocrine or musculoskeletal issues from desexing too early.  If this is an impending surgery decision, be sure to watch the new guidelines for spay and neuter in dogs and cats video by Dr. Judy Morgan.

Allergies apply to cats as well. Pollen can affect indoor cats (through open windows) and outdoor cats through direct exposure. Signs to look out for are: excessive grooming, skin irritation, or respiratory symptoms.  There are some allergy homeopathic sprays on the market worth trying and you may want to consider a HEPA filter air purification system if allergies are a problem in your house.

Spring pet care strategies

Time to step up the hydration.  As it gets warmer it becomes more important to ensure your pets have a bowl of fresh water readily available. It’s a good time to get into the habit now before summer strikes!

Spring cleaning isn’t just for the home.  Cleaning your pet's bed, bowls and toys is just as important as cleaning your home. Try to use natural alternatives to the chemical cleaners that add to your dogs toxic load.

Make outdoors a safe space

Spring is often the time we start to plan for our summer activities, excited to get outdoors more.  But, if you have plans to upgrade your garden or outdoor area, keep the safety of your pet front of mind.  This means researching which plants are pet-safe before buying. You’d be surprised how many popular spring plants and flowers can be toxic to your pets.  Some on the list include: tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and lilies.

Look forward to more time outside

With spring comes new ways to have fun and bond with your pet. For dog owners this could be swimming, hiking or even just taking longer walks than you did in the colder months.  Maybe for your cat it looks like a new perch placed by a sunny window or outside in a covered area. 

Step into spring prepared so that you, and your pet, can focus on those longer sunny days together!