Prescription Medication and Diets

You want your pet to live a long, healthy life as a beloved member of your family. Through prescription medication and diets, you can help your pet reach its optimal health. When you schedule your pet’s annual exam, we can discuss the prescription medications they need and dietary recommendations. 

What Type of Prescription Medications Are Necessary? 

While some pets need diabetes medication or treatment for hookworm, there are other medications we prescribe as preventative medicines. For example, many pets need flea and tick medication because of where they live. If your dog spends each morning at the dog park, they are constantly getting exposed to fleas. Unless you give them preventative medication, they will end up bringing a flea infestation home with them.

‍

Once you develop a flea infestation, it can be terribly difficult to get rid of it. Fleas can trigger mouth ulcers and skin allergies in pets, so it’s important to prevent an infestation. In addition, these eggs can survive for 18 months indoors, so you need to use a monthly spot-on product to protect your pet and home. 

‍

We like the spot-on product because it can also protect against roundworms and lungworms. Worming treatments are important because worms can cause life-threatening diarrhea and weight loss. Certain types of tapeworms and roundworms can even be passed on to human beings. Left untreated, these worms can cause your loved ones to eventually go blind.

‍

Fortunately, regular worming treatments can protect your entire family. Initially, we recommend monthly deworming tablets until the pet is six months old. Afterward, they can get a prescription for a deworming tablet that they can take every three months. 

What Kind of Diet Does My Pet Need? 

Your pet’s diet will vary based on the type of pet they are, their age, and their overall level of health. Often, the cheapest pet food you get at the store will not include the type of nutrients a pet needs to thrive. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for all pets. 

‍

For example, puppies need a different nutrient balance than geriatric pets. They are still in their growth stage, so they need a diet that is tailored to their needs. Meanwhile, adult dogs require a different blend of nutrients and calories than older dogs. 

‍

If your cat suffers from urinary issues or weight gain, you may need to adjust its diet. Even if you have two cats that are the same age, you may require different diets because of their lifestyles. An outdoor cat needs more calories because they are moving around more. If an indoor cat tried to eat the same food, it would gain weight. 

Learn About Your Pet’s Needs 

Your dog or cat may need a special diet to take care of its overall health. Through the right blend of prescription medication and diet, you can help your pet feel its best as it grows older. To schedule your first appointment or learn more about your pet’s dietary needs, reach out to Glenville Veterinary Clinic today.