Dogs and cats are among the most beloved companion animals that many people wish to own. However, living harmoniously with them after bringing them home is not always easy, as new pet owners often make common mistakes. So, what are the 5 common mistakes when bringing dogs or cats home? And how can you solve them?
For pet lovers, owning and caring for an adorable dog or cat is truly a great happiness. Although pets are lovely companions, raising them properly is not simple. Below are some common mistakes that new pet owners should pay attention in order to make life with their pets easier and more enjoyable.
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NOTE 1: DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE COST OF RAISING A PET
– Many Vietnamese people often think that raising dogs or cats is inexpensive and does not involve many additional expenses. However, this is one of the most common misconceptions. Once you decide to keep a dog or cat at home, it is similar to raising a child. And raising a child certainly requires a considerable financial commitment. Therefore, if your financial condition is not yet stable, it may be better to postpone pet ownership.
– Carefully calculate all possible expenses before deciding to adopt a pet. A simple way is to consult experienced pet owners or search for reliable information online.
– Some suggested expenses include:
+ Fixed costs during the pet’s lifetime: Cages, kennels, litter trays, collars, leashes, etc.
→ Estimated cost: approximately 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND or even more.
+ Daily expenses: Dry food, wet food, cat litter, pet pads, shampoo, toothpaste, oral deodorizing solutions, deodorizing sprays, etc.
→ Estimated cost: approximately 500,000 – 1,000,000 VND per month or higher.
+ Periodic expenses: Vaccination, deworming, parasite control, multivitamins, calcium supplements, etc.
→ Estimated cost: approximately 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND per year.
+ Other expenses: Treats, toys, clothing, spa and grooming services, etc.
→ These expenses depend on your budget and product preferences.
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NOTE 2: TOO MUCH CUDDLING CAN CAUSE STRESS
When bringing a new dog or cat home, owners often cuddle, pet, and play with them excessively out of affection. However, this may cause stress and anxiety in pets as they are still adapting to a new environment.
NOTE 3: PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR PET’S DIET
When bringing a dog or cat home, you should first find out what type of food the previous owner was feeding them to maintain a suitable diet. Sudden changes in food may easily lead to digestive disorders.
In addition, newly adopted pets are often stressed and may eat less than usual. This is completely normal. Do not force them to eat too much immediately. Instead, provide small meals divided throughout the day to help them gradually adapt to the new diet and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disturbances.
NOTE 4: DO NOT BATHE YOUR PET IMMEDIATELY
Many owners want to bathe their pets as soon as they bring them home so they will look clean and smell fresh. However, pets are often stressed after being separated from their mother and moved to a new environment.
You should allow them 1–2 weeks to adapt to their new surroundings before bathing them. This helps avoid worsening stress and reduces the risk of respiratory diseases such as flu or colds.
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NOTE 5: ALWAYS CARE FOR YOUR PET’S HEALTH
– Deworm and control parasites for your pet
One of the most common mistakes among new pet owners is failing to deworm or control parasites when first bringing pets home. Dogs and cats, especially furry breeds, are highly susceptible to ticks, mites, lice, and fleas. Therefore, parasite prevention and treatment are essential to keep them healthy and comfortable.
You should also choose safe, gentle, and clearly sourced veterinary products for peace of mind, such as ANTIPOUX — a spot-on treatment for ticks, mites, lice, and fleas in pets.
– Do not forget to spray areas where pets frequently play, including cages, litter trays, bedding, and surrounding spaces, with antiparasitic sprays such as FIPNIL SPRAY. This helps maintain a clean and hygienic living environment for both pets and owners.
With these 5 important notes when bringing a pet home, you can better prepare before adopting a dog or cat and create a more comfortable and enjoyable life for both you and your pet.