Pet ownership brings immeasurable joy, but it also comes with responsibilities many of us don’t fully grasp until we’re faced with them. The statistics surrounding pet health reveal patterns every caring owner should understand; not to worry you, but to help you make informed decisions for your furry companion.

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we’ve seen firsthand how knowledge helps pet owners become better advocates for their cats and dogs. Our integrative approach blends traditional veterinary medicine with holistic care, and we believe education is one of the most powerful tools you have. Let’s explore what the data tells us about keeping your pet healthy and happy.

Dental Disease Affects Most Pets by Age Three

Unfortunately, an estimated 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the time they reach three years old. This makes dental care one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health. Plaque and tartar don’t just cause bad breath; they can lead to painful infections, tooth loss, and even affect your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys.

Regular dental cleanings and at-home care can prevent most of these issues. Many pet owners assume their cat or dog is fine because they’re still eating, but pets are remarkably good at hiding dental pain. Studies show that pets with dental disease may not show obvious signs of discomfort, which means regular checkups are key to catching problems early.

Obesity Impacts More Than Half of American Pets

Over 50% of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. This isn’t just about appearance; excess weight puts stress on joints, increases the risk of diabetes, and can shorten your pet’s lifespan by up to two years.

Weight management starts with understanding your pet’s unique needs. Factors like breed, age, activity level, and even emotional well-being play a role in maintaining a healthy weight. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we take an integrative approach that considers all of these elements rather than just cutting calories.

Cancer Remains a Leading Cause of Death in Older Pets

Cancer accounts for nearly 50% of deaths in pets over the age of 10, making it one of the most significant health concerns for senior animals. While this statistic sounds frightening, early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes.

Regular wellness checkups allow veterinarians to catch abnormalities before they become serious problems. Lumps, changes in appetite or energy, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty breathing all warrant immediate attention. The sooner an issue is detected, the more options you have for addressing it.

Preventable Diseases Still Threaten Unvaccinated Pets

While some vaccinations are optional, we understand pet owners may have concerns about which immunizations are necessary for their pet’s lifestyle. Having an open conversation with your veterinarian about your pet’s specific risk factors helps you make informed decisions about their preventive care.

Despite the availability of effective immunizations, diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and feline leukemia continue to cause illness and death in unvaccinated pets. These conditions are hazardous for young animals whose immune systems are still developing.

Chronic Pain Often Goes Unrecognized

Studies estimate that one in five dogs experiences arthritis, but many cases go undiagnosed because pets don’t complain about discomfort the way people do. Cats are even better at masking pain, which means they may suffer in silence.

Signs of chronic pain aren’t always obvious. Decreased activity, hesitancy to jump or climb stairs, changes in grooming habits, or increased irritability can all signal that your pet is in pain. Fortunately, options beyond traditional pain medications exist. Acupuncture, laser therapy, and other holistic treatments offer relief without the side effects some medications can cause.

The Importance of Annual Checkups Cannot Be Overstated

Pets age much faster than humans—15 human years equals the first year of a medium-sized dog’s life, with year two equalling about 9 human years, and each subsequent year about 5 human years—which means health changes can happen quickly. An annual exam for your pet is like seeing your doctor every 5 to 9 years. For senior animals, twice-yearly visits are recommended to monitor age-related changes.

During these appointments, your veterinarian assesses much more than you might realize. Blood work can reveal early kidney disease, liver problems, or hormonal imbalances before symptoms appear. Catching these conditions early often means simpler, less expensive treatment options.

Many Pet Emergencies Happen at Home

Unfortunately, over 60% of pet poisonings occur in the home, often from foods, plants, or medications that owners don’t realize are dangerous. Everyday items that can pose a serious risk to cats and dogs include chocolate, grapes, certain artificial sweeteners, and houseplants.

Knowing what constitutes an emergency and having access to urgent care can make a significant difference. Symptoms like difficulty breathing, seizures, repeated vomiting, bloating, or sudden collapse require immediate attention. Having a plan in place before an emergency happens helps you act quickly when every minute counts.

Your Pet’s Health Journey Starts at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care

These statistics aren’t meant to overwhelm you; they’re meant to empower you with knowledge. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we believe in joint decision-making between you and your veterinarian. Our AAHA-accredited hospital serves pets and their families throughout Nevada with both traditional veterinary medicine and holistic care, offering the most comprehensive care options available.

Whether you’re looking for preventive care, treatment for a specific condition, or guidance on your pet’s overall well-being, our team is here to light the path forward. Ready to give your pet the data-driven care they deserve? Contact us to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can support your pet’s health journey.