Your pet seems happy and healthy. There are no obvious signs of injury or illness. There seems to be no reason to believe that your healthy pet is in jeopardy in any way. Wrong! Think again and carefully observe your pet.

To protect themselves from predators, animals naturally hide their pain. It’s a trait that has been inborn since the beginning of time. Your seemingly healthy pet may be suffering even though he isn’t showing obvious signs. Observing your pet’s behavior is vital to managing your pet’s health.

Watch how your pet acts and behaves. There are numerous indicators that their health isn’t what it should be. Since they are used to, and for the most part, quietly dealing with pain they will in fact make an effort to conceal or minimize the effects of any pain they feel.

If your pet shows abnormal chewing habits, he may have a dental disorder or a mouth tumor. Additional signs include weight loss, bad breath, or excessive face rubbing. A loss or thinning of hair could be another sign of internal distress. A normal, healthy pet should not show any of these signs.

Take your pet to the dentist. Not your family dentist, of course, but to a veterinarian who is experienced in examining and performing minor procedures to ensure long-term dental health. This type of preventive care can eliminate serious problems later, and is highly recommended. Many vets now have dental care kits including pet toothbrushes that you can use at home.

Good health is directly influenced by your weight and eating habits. Animals as well as humans carrying excess weight have an increased chance of physical illnesses and damage. Weight gain due to lack of exercise also can be a signal of arthritis pain. Joint disease is the most common cause of pain. Pets that limp may be reluctant to go up or down stairs, exercise, or play.

Your pet will experience greater pain from joint diseases if they are overweight. Just helping them lose a few pounds can take pressure off their sore joints and allow them to function better. You can find a number of excellent pet nutrition products designed to be tasty but low-calorie. These will help.

Just because your normally healthy pet doesn’t express pain through their eyes or vocally doesn’t mean they are not hurting. You should watch for even small differences in their normal behavior. Having a strong awareness of your pet’s normal habits can assist your pet’s doctor in diagnosing and treating their pain. Be safe. If you notice any differences in your pet’s normal routine, call your vet and discuss or take them in for an exam as soon as possible.

Find out how to take care of and have fun with your pets. Information and help for pampering and keeping your pet content. Let there be no doubt – a healthy pet is one of the great joys of life!