Bringing a pet into your life is a joyful experience—but it also comes with responsibility. Knowing the most common pet diseases and how to prevent them can help keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.

🐶 Common Dog Diseases

1. Canine Distemper

Symptoms: Fever, coughing, nasal discharge, loss of appetite, seizures
Transmission: Airborne or contact with infected animals
Prevention: Routine vaccinations, avoid contact with unvaccinated dogs

2. Parvovirus (Parvo)

Symptoms: Vomiting, severe diarrhea (often bloody), lethargy, dehydration
Prevention: Early vaccination (especially in puppies), clean food and water bowls

3. Heartworm Disease

Symptoms: Persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, difficulty breathing
Transmission: Spread by mosquitoes
Prevention: Monthly heartworm preventatives, mosquito control in your home

🐱 Common Cat Diseases

1. Feline Panleukopenia (Cat Distemper)

Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, dehydration
Transmission: Contact with infected cats or contaminated environments
Prevention: Core vaccinations and good hygiene

2. Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Symptoms: Fever, swollen abdomen, poor appetite, weight loss
Transmission: Caused by a mutated feline coronavirus
Prevention: Keep cats in clean, low-stress environments and monitor health

3. Ringworm (Fungal Infection)

Symptoms: Hair loss, scaly or red skin, itching
Transmission: Direct contact with infected animals or surfaces
Prevention: Regular cleaning, avoid overcrowded environments, boost immunity

🩺 General Prevention Tips (For Both Cats & Dogs)

✅ Stay on top of vaccinations – Annual boosters are key to long-term protection
✅ Deworm regularly – Use both internal and external parasite treatments as recommended
✅ Feed a balanced diet – High-quality pet food and clean water make a huge difference
✅ Maintain a clean living space – Regularly wash bedding, bowls, and toys
✅ Schedule routine vet checkups – Especially important for senior pets

❤️ Final Thoughts

Your pet relies on you for more than just food and cuddles—they need your care, attention, and proactive prevention. With a bit of effort, you can help them live a longer, healthier life by catching problems early and staying prepared.

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