The start of a new year is the perfect time to reset routines – and that includes your pet’s health. Whether you’ve got a playful puppy, a senior cat, or anything in between, following a new year pet health checklist can help you stay one step ahead of potential problems and give your pet the best possible start to the year.
Here’s what our vets recommend ticking off as we head into the new year.
1. Book a Routine Health Check
Even if your pet seems perfectly well, routine health checks are essential. These appointments allow your vet to spot early signs of common problems such as dental disease, arthritis, heart conditions or weight gain – often before symptoms become obvious at home.
Regular checks are especially important for:
- Senior pets
- Pets with ongoing medical conditions
- Breeds prone to inherited issues
2. Review Vaccinations & Preventative Care
The new year is an ideal time to make sure your pet’s vaccinations, flea, tick and worming treatments are fully up to date. Parasites don’t disappear in winter, and with milder UK temperatures, fleas and ticks can remain active all year round.
Staying consistent with preventative treatments helps protect not only your pet, but your home and family too.
3. Check Teeth, Gums & Breath
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues we see in UK pets – and it often goes unnoticed. Bad breath, red gums, drooling or changes in eating habits can all be warning signs.
At home, you can help by:
- Brushing teeth with pet-safe toothpaste
- Using vet-approved dental chews
- Booking regular dental checks
Catching dental problems early can prevent pain, infection and more serious health issues later on.
4. Review Weight & Nutrition
It’s not uncommon for pets to gain a little weight over the festive period. However, carrying excess weight can increase the risk of arthritis, diabetes and heart disease.
Start the year by:
- Reviewing portion sizes
- Cutting back on high-calorie treats
- Asking your vet or nurse for tailored nutrition advice
Small changes now can make a big difference over the year ahead.
5. Support Joint & Mobility Health
Cold, damp weather can make stiffness and joint pain more noticeable, especially in older pets. Look out for signs such as slowing down on walks, reluctance to jump, or difficulty climbing stairs.
There are lots of ways to support mobility, including:
- Joint supplements
- Weight management
- Pain management plans
- Physiotherapy or hydrotherapy
Early intervention can greatly improve comfort and quality of life.
6. Refresh Exercise & Enrichment Routines
Shorter days and bad weather can mean pets get less stimulation during winter months. Mental and physical enrichment is just as important as exercise.
Ideas to try:
- Shorter but more frequent walks
- Training games and puzzle feeders
- New toys or scent-based activities
- Indoor play for cats
Keeping pets active helps support both physical and mental wellbeing.
7. Update Microchip & ID Details
A quick but vital task – especially if you’ve moved house or changed your phone number. Ensuring your pet’s microchip and ID details are up to date dramatically increases the chances of being reunited if they ever go missing.
Start the Year with Confidence
Following a new year pet health checklist is a simple way to stay proactive about your pet’s wellbeing. If you’re unsure where to start, our team at Vista Vets are always happy to help – whether that’s booking a health check, reviewing diet, or advising on preventative care.
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