Photo: Unsplash (free licence).
Quick answer: your pet's health rests on eight pillars: complete, well-portioned food, fresh water, daily activity, grooming (coat, teeth, ears, claws), vaccinations, flea and tick treatment, regular vet check-ups and a calm, stimulating home.
The 8 pillars of health
- Feeding: a complete food suited to their species, life stage and size, in the right amount.
- Hydration: clean, fresh water in several spots.
- Exercise: daily walks and play; for cats, play and places to climb.
- Grooming: brushing, dental care, ear cleaning when needed and claw trimming.
- Vaccinations: following your vet's schedule.
- Flea, tick and worm treatment: external and internal, all year round in many areas.
- Check-ups: at least once a year; more often for puppies, kittens and seniors.
- Emotional wellbeing: routines, company, rest and enrichment.
Signs that need attention
- Changes in appetite, thirst or weight.
- Vomiting, diarrhoea or changes in urine.
- Coughing, sneezing or difficulty breathing.
- Itching, bald patches or a bad smell.
- Limping or pain when moving.
- Changes in behaviour.
Essential products
Keep reading
For information only. If you have any health concerns, consult your vet.




