Pet Health Stash: 8 Products You Can Buy Online

source: acgasvet.com

 If you're a pet parent, you already know that these furry babies are just like little humans. They can easily get injured, sick or get infested with fleas (this is very common for dogs, but also for cats that go outdoors). Most pet health products online are available over the counter, but it's always a good idea to talk to your vet before purchasing anything. So, if you want to create a basic pet health care products stash at home, here are some products you can buy.

Dog Ear Care  

source: univarsolutions.com

Dogs are prone to ear infections, so it's crucial to check their ears often. When bathing your dog, be careful to keep water out of its ears. Use a cotton ball or a clean cloth to wipe them down. If you see any signs of irritation or infection, like scratching, discharge, or a foul odour, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. It might be mites or an infection, and the vet can provide the appropriate treatment. Dog ear products are the most commonly purchased pet health products online. You won't need a prescription for these, so you can always have one at home. Still, even though these products don't need a vet prescription, it's a good idea to talk to your vet before using them.

Antiparasitics

Antiparasitics are a must-have for both cats and dogs. If your furry friend loves to roam outside, there's a good chance they'll pick up some fleas. You’ll notice your pet scratching like crazy, especially around their head. Fleas can jump from one pet to another, so if one gets them, it’s likely all your pets will too. If you don’t take care of it, these parasites can lead to serious anemia in cats, which can be really dangerous. Plus, fleas are the main culprits behind tapeworms since cats often swallow them while grooming. Female fleas are super prolific, laying up to 50 eggs a day, which can add up to around 500 eggs in their lifetime. The good news is you can fight back with antiparasitics. These come as chewable tablets or drops that you can apply to the back of your cat's neck, in a spot they can’t reach to lick off.

Antibiotics  

No pet healthcare kit is truly complete without antibiotics. If your furry friend is dealing with a bacterial infection, your vet might suggest these meds. They're often used to tackle respiratory issues, skin problems, and injuries from scuffles with other pets. Antibiotics help by preventing bacteria from growing and cutting off their glucose supply, which they need for energy. For gut issues, metronidazole is a go-to, while clindamycin is great for soft tissue, bone, and dental infections.

Antifungal and Antiviral Medications  

Antifungal meds are all about getting rid of fungus and tackling both internal and external infections. They're great when it comes to internal issues, as they stop the fungus from growing, giving the immune system a chance to kick in and clear it out. Usually, your pet will be on these treatments for about four to six months.  On the flip side, antiviral meds don’t actually kill viruses like feline herpes or Calici. Instead, they work by stopping the viruses from making more copies of themselves, which eventually leads to their downfall.  

Antihistamines  

Antihistamines come in two types: H1 and H2. The newer H2 ones are great because they don’t make you drowsy, making them super popular.  

For cats, vets often reach for H1 antihistamines like diphenhydramine, clemastine fumarate, and chlorpheniramine to help with allergies, especially when they’re itching like crazy. Just a heads up, the main side effects can be drowsiness and a dry mouth.

Thermometer

source: zoetispetcare.com

Checking your pet's temperature at home can really help you gauge how serious their health issue might be. Plus, this info is super handy for your vet when you discuss your pet's condition. If you're on a budget, a pet-friendly digital thermometer is a solid choice for taking their rectal temperature. Just be sure to stick to the instructions on the packaging or get guidance from your vet to keep it safe. On the other hand, if you want something a bit fancier and less invasive, an underarm thermometer can do the trick by measuring the temperature under one of their front legs. It might cost a bit more, but it could make the whole process easier and more comfortable for both you and your furry friend.

Bandages

Bandages are essential for any pet first-aid kit and home health care supplies. They offer temporary support and keep your pet's wound clean until you can visit the vet. Just remember to wrap them snugly, but not  so tight that it cuts off circulation. Here are some key items to  include in your pet first-aid kit:   

• Self-adhesive bandage wrap (crepe bandage)   
• Gauze pads and rolls   
• Tape   
• Blunt-tipped scissors  
• Tweezers   
• Gloves (rubber or latex)

Trimmers

source: plutosparlourandpets.co.uk

If you're trying to cut costs on grooming at salons, get a trimmer and take care of your pet’s grooming at home. Some dog owners are pros and can handle the whole grooming routine, while others just use trimmers for quick touch-ups. These pet trimmers come with different settings and a comb attachment with a blade. The great thing is that they’re super easy to use, even if you’re a newbie. Plus, they’re safe for your furry friend and do a great job of getting rid of extra fur. Dog owners often use them to tidy up the hair on their pups' paws and around their eyes, mouth, and nose.