The Ultimate Pet Wellness Checklist: Daily, Weekly & Monthly Care Tips for Dogs and Cats 

Keeping your beloved pet healthy and happy is all about consistent care. This comprehensive checklist provides a simple guide to daily, weekly, and monthly tasks that will help ensure your dog or cat thrives.

Keep it handy: 

On your fridge, in a pet care binder, or anywhere you'll see it often so you can stay on track!

Daily Check-Ins

These small daily actions form the foundation of your pet's well-being.

💧 Fresh Water: Make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water.

 🍽️ Scheduled Meals: Stick to regular meal times to help regulate digestion and maintain a healthy weight.

 🚽 Bathroom Habits: Monitor their urination and bowel movements for any changes, as these can be early indicators of health issues.

 😊 Behavior and Mood: Observe their normal behavior and mood. Any sudden shifts in energy, appetite, or demeanor could signal a problem.

 🚶‍♀️ Exercise & Play: Provide a daily walk (for dogs) or an engaging play session to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated.

 🛁 Light Grooming: A quick brush or check can help with shedding and allow you to spot any skin issues early.

 ❤️ Affection & Bonding: Spend quality time with your pet. This not only strengthens your bond but also allows you to gently check them over and ensure they're feeling loved.

Weekly Wellness Routine

Dedicate a little extra time each week for these important health checks and maintenance tasks.

 🦷 Oral Health: Check their teeth and mouth for any unusual odor, tartar buildup, or red/swollen gums.

 👂 Ear Inspection: Look inside their ears for cleanliness, redness, discharge, or any unpleasant odors.

 ✂️ Nail Trimming: Trim their nails as needed to prevent overgrowth, which can be painful and lead to posture problems.

 🛏️ Hygiene: Wash pet bedding and sanitize toys to keep their environment clean and reduce germ buildup.

 🧩 Enrichment: Introduce a new enrichment activity or training session to keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom.

 ⚖️ Weight Check: Weigh your pet or assess their body condition to catch any significant weight changes that could indicate health issues.

Monthly Tracking & Prevention

These monthly tasks are crucial for preventative care and long-term health management.

💉 Parasite Prevention: Administer any prescribed flea, tick, or heartworm prevention medication.

🐾 Skin & Coat: Thoroughly inspect their skin and coat for any dryness, redness, irritation, or unusual lumps and bumps.

📝 Health Log: Keep a log of any changes in appetite, energy levels, or behavior. This record can be invaluable for your vet.

💊 Medication Review: Review any current medications or supplements to ensure they are being given correctly and are still needed.

🗓️ Vet Visits: Schedule any necessary vet visits, including routine check-ups and vaccinations.

🧹 Litter Box Deep Clean (Cats): Give the litter box a thorough deep clean to maintain hygiene and reduce odors.

🔍 Check Body: Check body for lumps or bumps.

By consistently following this checklist, you're not just taking care of a pet; you're actively ensuring they lead a healthier, happier life alongside you.