Pet Wellness Month: Simple Tips to Keep Dogs, Cats, Birds, and More Happy & Healthy

It’s Pet Wellness Month in the UK! From dogs and cats to birds, hamsters, and reptiles — here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to keeping your pets healthy, happy, and thriving.

October’s here, I have finally had to admit defeat and wear a hoody on walks and Loki has decided he is allergic to rain so won'tset foot outside. But it’s also Pet Wellness Month, which makes it the perfect time to check in on the health and happiness of all our pets, not just the four-legged ones that steal our socks.

Whether you’ve got a dog who thinks every walk is an adventure, a cat who rules the house, a chatty bird, a hamster with Olympic-level energy, or a chilled reptile basking under a lamp, here’s some simple, practical advice to keep them feeling their best.

🩺 1. Routine Health Checks — Prevention Beats Panic

I, like most people, only call the vet when something seems wrong. But regular check-ups are worth it, and with some vets, like mine, it is already included in their Health Plan. I literally live over the road from my vets, yet I am guilty of only taking Loki for his annual vaccinations or if something is wrong. I also use a Vet 24/7 app for Loki as he is so reactive, visiting a vet can be stressful for him (and me), this is really good for when he decides to vomit on the carpet at 3am.

A simple visit can catch small issues before they become big (and expensive) ones.

What to look out for:

• Dogs & Cats: Teeth, weight, skin, and joint health.

• Small pets (hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits): Watch for overgrown teeth, hair loss, or sudden changes in eating.

• Birds: Keep an eye on feathers, droppings, and breathing.

• Reptiles: Healthy skin, clear eyes, and proper shedding are key.

Your pet can’t tell you something hurts, and are often annoyingly good at hiding things if something is wrong, so a regular vet visit is the next best thing.

🍗 2. Feed Smart (and Don’t Fall for the Begging Eyes)

Loki is an incredible con-artist when it comes to food, he has, on occasion, managed to trick myself and Nick into giving him 2 dinners...

Feeding tips:

• Stick to food suited to your pet’s age, size, and lifestyle. Follow the packet instructions, I once had someone say to me that its okay to ignore the packet if the dog is still hungry... that logic is why so many dogs are overweight nowadays.

• Treats are fine, but moderation’s key (no matter how cute they look).

• Fresh water daily - every pet, no excuses.

• Add a bit of variety - puzzle feeders, healthy toppers, or foraging fun.

And remember: a healthy diet doesn’t mean boring, it just means balanced.

🐕 3. Move More, Sit Less

Exercise isn’t just for us - pets need it too.

• Dogs: Walks, playtime, sniffing sessions, and games like fetch or tug.

• Cats: Toys, climbing trees and cardboard boxes are great. My moms cats will sit in their cardboard boxes for hours waiting for the other one to pounce.

• Birds: Flying time in a safe space, foraging toys, or bells and mirrors.

• Hamsters: A properly sized wheel (small ones can cause back issues) and tunnels to explore.

• Reptiles: Add rocks, branches, or hides to encourage natural movement. I have known people tie a balloon to their pet and have them in the garden whilst still being able to see them. Please only do this in a secure garden.

A bit of daily activity keeps them fit, happy, and less likely to destroy your furniture.

🪥 4. Grooming & Dental Care — Small Jobs, Big Difference

It’s not glamorous, but grooming and dental care go a long way for overall wellness.

• Dogs & Cats: Regular brushing keeps coats shiny and prevents matting. Try brushing teeth a few times a week, with pet toothpaste. Dental chews are also a great way to keep teeth clean in between brushing.

Loki will literally run away if I so much as brush my own hair, so we have turned it into a game, I squeal 'brushing' at him, he chases treats and I get to give him a good brush.

• Birds: Offer a shallow bath or gentle mist spray - they love it.

• Hamsters & Rabbits: Chew toys help keep teeth from overgrowing.

• Reptiles: Check for stuck shed and keep tanks clean and well-balanced.

Clean pets are healthy pets — even if they act like you’ve ruined their life in the process.

🧠 5. Mental Stimulation — Keep Their Brains Busy

Bored pets are mischievous pets. A little enrichment each day keeps them content and out of trouble.

Try this:

• Hide treats or scatter-feed to encourage foraging.

• Use puzzle toys or snuffle mats.

• Teach new tricks - even cats and parrots can learn!

• Rearrange cages or tanks to make their world interesting.

A few minutes a day makes a huge difference — and it’s great bonding time too.

🏡 6. Comfort & Routine Matter More Than You Think

Most pets love routine. It helps them feel secure - and it helps you keep things consistent.

Make sure they have:

• A warm, comfy bed or perch.

• A quiet space when they want to hide.

• A clean environment - cages, tanks, and beds all need regular refreshes.

• Please make sure to wash their bowls every day, so many diseases can be present on bowls and feeding surfaces.

• Fresh air and natural light where possible.

A tidy space, good sleep, and a bit of structure work wonders (for pets and humans).

🧓 7. Caring for Older Pets

If your furry, feathered, or scaly friend is getting on a bit, it’s all about comfort and gentle care.

• Softer bedding and easy access to food, water, and favourite spots.

• Shorter, slower walks or play sessions.

• Supplements (with vet approval) for joints or digestion.

• Extra patience - they’ve earned it.

Ageing’s not a flaw - it’s a sign of all the good years you’ve had together.

⚠️ 8. Red Flags — When to Call the Vet

Keep an eye out for:

• Sudden changes in appetite, weight, or mood.

• Limping, wheezing, or unusual sounds.

• Lumps, hair loss, or skin irritation.

• Odd behaviour - hiding, shaking, or over-grooming.

If something feels off, trust your gut. A quick check-up beats a sleepless night of worrying (and Googling symptoms).

🎉 9. Celebrate Pet Wellness Month!

This October, why not:

• Book your pet’s health check.

• Wash their bed or cage properly (go on, it’s time).

• Buy a new toy or enrichment activity.

• Try a healthier treat or check that you are feeding the correct portion sizes of their food.

• Donate to a local rescue centre or sanctuary.

It doesn’t have to be fancy — just thoughtful. Small changes make a big difference.

💚 Final Thought

Pet Wellness Month isn’t about being perfect, it’s about paying attention. Whether your pet barks, purrs, squeaks, chirps, or slithers, they rely on us to keep them healthy, safe, and loved.

So this month, give them a once-over, refresh their space, and maybe sneak in an extra cuddle (or ten).

They make our lives better, it’s only fair we return the favour. 🐾💙