As the scorching heat and high temperatures take their leave, pet parents are faced with a new challenge looming over the horizon: the monsoon season. While rains are a welcome reprieve from summer, they bring with them skin infections and moisture-induced diseases that compromise our pets’ health and hygiene. 

So, while it rains cats and dogs — how can we take care of our cats and dogs? Here are 9 essential tips!

1. Groom Regularly

Exposure to dirt, muck, bacteria, and other germs in the rainy season leaves your pet vulnerable to all kinds of skin infections. Keeping your pet clean through regular grooming is an absolute must!

• Brushing: Brush your pet's coat daily to remove tangles, dirt, and moisture.
• Ear Cleaning: Because of moisture, your pet can accumulate wax and contract other ear infections. Dogs with long, closed ears are especially prone to this. Clean their ears regularly and thoroughly.
• Drying After Outdoor Activities: After each outdoor play session or bath, pat your pet's coat dry, preferably with a microfiber towel. Pay attention to areas that tend to stay damp, such as the armpits and underbelly.

Remember, maintaining regular grooming routines for your pet's ears, eyes, and coat to keep them dry is an essential step of their monsoon care routine.

2. Use Rain Gear and Accessories 

If you decide to take your pet outside on a rainy adventure, prepping them with rain gear will help keep the experience safe and comfortable. Consider using waterproof accessories like raincoats or umbrellas to keep their fur dry, and boots to shield their paws from moisture, mud, infected puddles and slippery surfaces. Antifungal powder, tick and flea repellents are also useful to deter pests and bacterial or fungal attacks.

3. Pay Special Attention to their Paws

The main point of contact between your pet and the dirt and disease-causing microorganisms on the ground is their paws.

Pet footwear can help keep them protected. However, it’s also advisable to end every walk with a quick paw-cleaning session — a towel and some warm water should be enough. You can also use an antiseptic wash for the paws to stop infections.

4. Keep Them Dry and Comfy

The importance of drying your pet in the monsoon cannot be overstated. Moisture is in the air all around, and in the moisture are bacteria and fungi waiting to strike.

Try to keep your pet thoroughly dry, especially after walks outside — this will prevent them from catching a cold or a skin infection. Pat them dry using a clean, absorbent towel or use a pet-friendly hair dryer on low heat, from a safe distance. Make sure your pet is completely dry before allowing them to rest or play indoors.

5. Prep Your Indoor Spaces

As your pet starts spending more time indoors, keep their spots as hygienic as can be. Remove any signs of dirt and dampness immediately.

Your pet’s sleeping area is a sensitive spot too. Always check that it is clean, dry, and away from cold draughts of wind, and throw in a blanket for extra warmth and cosiness!

When indoors, engage your pet with activities like obstacle courses, treat-based games (like hide and seek), interactive toys and puzzles. Be cautious of slippery floors!

6. Look Out for Them During Thunderstorms

The rainy thunderstorms and lightning can give your pet quite a fright. It’s best to stay at home to provide them with some much-needed comfort. Distract your pet with their favourite games, and activities. Additionally, make sure to shut your windows and minimise the noise of thunder from outside. Some pets may find safety with their owners, so make them feel welcome and reassured in your arms!

7. De-worm and Vaccinate

Regular vaccinations are important for your pet's health as the risk of infectious diseases is higher during the monsoons. Stay updated with vaccinations and schedule check-ups with your veterinarian. Also, make sure to deworm your pet regularly to prevent parasite-related illnesses. Consult with your veterinarian for more information.

8. Protect Them From Water-Borne Diseases

During this time, be cautious of stagnant water as it can harbour bacteria and parasites. Avoid walking your pet near puddles or standing water, and keep a close eye on your pet during outdoor activities. Additionally, ensure that your pet has access to clean, fresh drinking water so as to prevent stomach ailments. You can also consider boiling water before giving it to them.

9. Give Them a Nutritious Diet

Like water, avoid giving your pet any food that has been left in the bowl for too long.

A healthy diet is always crucial for your pet's well-being. The monsoon season calls for higher immunity and health in pets. Provide a balanced and nutritious diet, with essential nutrients like fibre and omega-3 fatty acids that will protect their skin and coat.

At Orange Pet Nutrition, we have a range of nourishing food for pets. From dogs, cats, and birds, to small animals — you can find healthy food for all!

Make this rainy season enjoyable for your pets by promising them safety and health with these monsoon care tips!