Colds and Flu Can Make Your Pet Blue
It's the dreaded cold and flu season, which to many of us means a few days off work, sleepless nights, dosing up on cold and flu remedies and lots of daytime TV. But how does it affect your pets? Here are some things to consider when cold and flu season arrives to ensure you're all feeling back to normal soon.
Over the counter medicines contain hidden dangers
Antihistamines, Paracetamol, painkillers Aspirin and Ibuprofen and extra strength painkillers containing Codeine are all highly toxic to your pets. When you're unwell and are taking round-the-clock medication, ensure that it is kept well out of the reach of your pets at all times, even if this means keeping it in a less than convenient location. It's surprising what a pet will eat when they think it's a treat!
Some essential oils used in air fresheners, oil burners, decongestants and natural remedies are toxic
This is particularly true for cats. Inhilation, ingestion and skin exposure can be harmful, so before using any kind of essential oil in your home first ensure that it is safe to use around your pets (a simple Google search should give you all the information you need).
Even if the oil itself is safe don't forget how its use may affect your pets. Oil burners and pot-pourri should always be kept out of the reach of pets, and when using oils directly on your skin consider the fact that transfer through stroking can lead to ingestion or absorption.
Caffeine is harmful for cats and dogs
Dogs and cats are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than humans, so ingesting even a small amount can have serious consequences. Don't be tempted to leave empty cups of coffee or tea lying around where a curious pet may find them. If you can't manage the walk to the kitchen, keep empty containers well out of your pet's way. And don't forget to protect them against other sources of caffeine too; energy drinks, some bottled waters, breath fresheners, medication, fizzy drinks, protein bars and even ice cream may contain it!
Sweeteners aren't so sweet
The artificial sweeteners found in some medications, drinks, sweets, ice cream, yoghurts and chewing gum are dangerous to pets. Ingestion can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar and even liver damage, which can be fatal. Artificial sweeteneners are found in some drinks, sweets, chewing gum, fruit juice, ice cream, yoghurt and more. They are usually labelled as 'diet' or 'sugar-free'. As with any products containing caffeine it is important to keep these well away from pets.
A lack of exercise can have negative effects
When you have the flu it may seem near impossible to provide your pet with their daily requirement of exercise. Whether it be a walk around the park or allowing access to the outside, it can all seem too much when you're suffering from illness.
A day or two without exercise won't necessarily harm your pet, but it can lead to boredom, depression and some unwanted behaviours like destructiveness. A daily walk isn't just a chance for your pet to stretch their legs and relieve themselves; it's also a time for companionship, stimulation and stress-relief. For these reasons alone it's important to maintain your pet's levels of exercise, even when you're not necessarily feeling up to the task.
When illness strikes consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to come and spend time with your pet. Perhaps a friend or neighbour might be willing to take your dog for a walk or play with your cat? If all else fails, interactive toys that your pet can operate by themselves can help stave off boredom until you're feeling well again.
Crucially, if you're unable to care for your pet's basic needs during your illness (food, water, toileting, attention) you should consider asking a friend or relative to board your pets temporarily until you're feeling better.
Coughs and sneezes spread diseases
Our pets can be great comforters to us when we're feeling unwell, and they seem to enjoy the extra time they get with us when we're home sick! Unlike dogs, who can become sick from contact with other dogs but not directly from humans, cats can become ill from some of the same viruses that make us unwell. Most cats are able to fight off cold viruses within a week or so, but if symptoms persist a visit to the vet may be in order.