New Year’s Checklist for Your Cat’s and Dog’s Health

The new year is a time for us to have fresh starts, healthier habits, and setting goals and that shouldn’t stop with us. Our cats and dogs rely on us for their well-being, and a few thoughtful check-ins at the start of the year can make a big difference in their long-term health and happiness. Whether you have a playful puppy, a sleepy senior cat, or something in between, this New Year’s pet health checklist is a great way to start the year off right.

Evaluate Your Pet’s Diet and Nutrition

A balanced, high-quality diet is one of the most important foundations of your pet’s overall health. Take a moment to review what your dog or cat eats each day. Are they getting a protein-rich diet with minimal fillers and artificial additives? Are treats adding up faster than you realize?

Portion control matters just as much as food quality. Measuring meals, especially if you free-feed kibble, can help prevent your cat or dog from gradual weight gain. Fresh, clean water should always be available and refreshed daily. If you’re unsure whether your pet’s food is meeting their nutritional needs, your veterinarian can help guide you toward a healthier option.

Check Your Pet’s Weight and Body Condition

Once you’ve assessed your pet’s diet, it’s time to check your dog and cat’s weight. A healthy dog or cat should have ribs you can feel under the fur without pressing too hard, along with a visible waist when viewed from above. Extra padding around the ribs or belly can signal that it’s time to adjust portions or increase activity.

If your dog or cat is overweight, or underweight, your veterinarian may recommend a specific feeding plan or prescription diet to safely bring them back to an ideal body condition.

Prioritize Your Pet’s Dental Health

Oral health often gets overlooked, but dental disease can lead to pain, infection, and even heart or kidney problems. Daily tooth brushing with pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar buildup.

If brushing isn’t realistic every day, dental chews, water additives, and specially formulated dental diets can still provide benefits. During your next vet visit, ask about your pet’s dental health and whether a professional cleaning is recommended.

Refresh Your Dog’s Exercise Routine

Regular exercise supports your dog’s physical health and mental well-being. If your routine has grown stale, the new year is a great time to try something new. Even during colder months, aim for at least one daily walk, short jog, or structured play session.

You can also mix things up with indoor games, training exercises, or scheduled playdates. These activities help burn energy, strengthen social skills, and keep boredom-related behaviors in check.

Add More Interactive Playtime for Cats

Cats may sleep up to 17 hours a day, but they still need daily activity to stay healthy. Interactive toys that mimic prey, like feather wands or laser pointers, can tap into a cat’s natural hunting instincts and encourage movement.

Don’t underestimate simple household items, either. Cardboard boxes, paper bags (with handles removed), and tunnel toys can become exciting enrichment tools that provide exercise and mental stimulation.

Schedule Your Pet’s Annual Veterinary Visit

A yearly veterinary exam is important for your dog or cat’s preventive care, even if your pet seems perfectly healthy. Annual checkups allow your vet to detect early signs of illness, update vaccinations, and discuss nutrition, behavior, and dental care.

Senior pets benefit from twice-yearly visits, as age-related conditions can develop quickly. While you’re there, ask about bloodwork, dental evaluations, and any changes you’ve noticed at home.

Maintain a Regular Grooming Routine

Daily or frequent brushing does more than reduce shedding; it promotes healthy skin, distributes natural oils, and allows you to spot lumps, parasites, or skin changes early. Grooming sessions are also a wonderful bonding opportunity for both dogs and cats.

Depending on your pet’s coat type, regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and professional grooming may also be part of a healthy routine.

Keep Your Pet’s Mind Sharp With Training and Enrichment

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, especially for aging pets. Teaching a new trick, practicing basic cues, or introducing puzzle feeders can help keep your pet’s brain active and engaged.

Studies suggest that mental enrichment may help slow cognitive decline in senior dogs and cats, making it a valuable habit at any age.

Update Your Pet’s Identification and Records

Life changes quickly, and outdated information can make all the difference if your pet ever gets lost. Check that your dog or cat’s ID tags are legible and include current contact details. If your pet is microchipped, confirm that your information is up to date with the registry.

This simple step is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lost pet is reunited with their family as quickly as possible.

Starting the year with a thoughtful pet health checklist sets the tone for months of better habits and proactive care. Small changes now can lead to a healthier, happier life for your dog or cat and gives you even more peace of mind for you all year long.