By Pauline Machado
Autumn is a transitional season, characterized by falling temperatures and changing environmental conditions – factors that can affect our health, as well as that of dogs and cats.
To guide us on the benefits and care we should take with our pets' health during the fall, we spoke with a veterinarian, Luna Peralta .
She warned us that, although this time of year brings health benefits to pets, it's also important to be vigilant, as it's a time when parasites and other health problems are more prevalent.
Throughout the interview, the veterinarian also gave us guidance on other important aspects that help families keep their pets healthy and protected during this season.
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Pet Med – Autumn is a transitional season, what does this mean for the health of dogs and cats? Is there anything that owners should especially observe at this time of year?
Luna Peralta – Especially during this time of year, pet owners should pay close attention to their pets' breathing, as it is a time when the air becomes drier and the incidence of respiratory allergies increases.
Pet Med – What are the main health benefits of autumn for pets?
Luna Peralta – The benefits of autumn are related to the mild temperature, where we have days and nights that are neither cold nor hot.
Pet Med – The milder autumn weather can be more comfortable for dogs and cats, especially those who have difficulty with the heat. How does this impact their quality of life?
Luna Peralta – Excessive heat causes hyperthermia and dehydration in animals. For this reason, a mild climate is more comfortable for animals, bringing well-being and a better quality of life.
Pet Med – Does Autumn also bring changes to pets' diets? Should dogs' and cats' food be adjusted during this season due to temperature variations?
Luna Peralta – Yes, it's important to keep animals hydrated to prevent dehydration. Including moist foods can help increase hydration. The air is becoming drier, so it's important to have a humidifier at home to make the air more humid and pleasant.
Pet Med – What other specific diseases or conditions become more prevalent at this time of year?
Luna Peralta – At this time of year, there is a higher incidence of respiratory tract diseases, including allergic and infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria. In dogs, it can cause canine infectious tracheobronchitis, known as kennel cough, and in cats, rhinotracheitis, which is feline flu. For this reason, it is important to redouble efforts regarding vaccination.
Pet Med – Autumn is the season of fallen leaves, and many animals play with them. What are the risks associated with contact with dry leaves?
Luna Peralta – Yes, there is a risk. Fallen leaves can contain fungi and parasites. Ideally, you shouldn't allow the animal to play with the leaves, as they can also contain allergens.
Pet Med – In these cases, what precautions should family members take during walks with their dogs?
Luna Peralta – Family members should avoid walks in areas with strong, cold winds, and should always keep their pet hydrated. Care should be taken to prevent the accumulation of dry leaves, so as not to allow the animal to play in them.
Pet Med – With the arrival of Autumn, pet grooming needs also increase. What precautions should pet owners take?
Luna Peralta – During this season, animals shed their fur, so they should be brushed daily to remove dead hair and allow new, healthy fur to grow in.
Pet Med – What about air humidity in the fall? What preventative measures should be taken to avoid respiratory illnesses during this season?
Luna Peralta – Keep your vaccinations up to date to avoid possible respiratory illnesses. At home, family members can and should use a humidifier to keep the air more humid. Keeping up with deworming is also important, as well as properly cleaning the environment to avoid dust and allergens.
Pet Med – Is it true that there is a relationship between autumn and an increase in parasites such as fleas and ticks?
Luna Peralta – Yes, there is an increase in parasite infestations during the fall. Therefore, it is important to protect dogs by keeping up with deworming and flea and tick treatments. In rural areas or at the beach, it is essential to use a collar to protect against mosquito bites.
Pet Med – We're nearing the end of the interview, so what are the main care tips you'd give to families with dogs and cats to ensure their pets' health and well-being during the fall?
Luna Peralta – The most important thing is to schedule regular visits to the veterinarian for preventative care and treatment of dogs and cats, as well as keeping up-to-date on vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick prevention.
In addition, and no less importantly, it's necessary to pay attention to hydration, use a humidifier at home, and avoid walks in cold winds.
Finally, I want to emphasize the great importance of veterinarians in the lives of animals. Therefore, visits to the veterinarian should be regular, both for the prevention of pet diseases and to promote their well-being in any season of the year.
