Skip to content
Last updated: October 2026.
Most of what keeps a pet healthy is not complicated: the right food in the right amount, regular exercise, things to keep their mind busy, and routine vet care. This guide covers the basics for dogs and cats, and where supplements, including pet CBD, sensibly fit, which is after the basics are in place.
The short answer
- Feed a complete, balanced diet suited to your pet’s age, size and health.
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight: it is one of the most powerful things you can do for their health.
- Exercise and mental stimulation every day, tailored to age and breed.
- Supplements are extras, not replacements; talk to your vet first.
Nutrition basics
Choose a complete food
Look for a food labelled “complete” for your pet’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior). Complete foods contain all the nutrients your pet needs in the right balance. “Complementary” foods and treats do not and should only be a small part of the diet.
Feed the right amount
Feeding guides on packaging are a starting point. Adjust based on your pet’s body condition, and weigh food rather than guessing. Remember that treats count.
Cats are not small dogs
Cats are obligate carnivores and need nutrients, such as taurine, that are found in meat. Never feed a cat dog food long-term, and always provide fresh water; many cats prefer a water fountain or a wide bowl away from their food.
Healthy weight: why it matters
Overweight pets are at higher risk of joint problems, diabetes, breathing problems and a shorter life. Many owners do not realise their pet is overweight. As a quick guide, you should be able to feel your pet’s ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, see a waist from above, and see a tuck in the belly from the side. Your vet or vet nurse can do a body condition check and help with a weight plan.
| Sign | What it suggests |
|---|---|
| Ribs easy to feel, visible waist | Healthy weight |
| Ribs hard to feel, no waist | Overweight |
| Ribs, spine and hips very prominent | Underweight; see your vet |
Treats: the hidden calories
- Keep treats to around 10% of daily calories.
- Use part of their daily food allowance as training rewards.
- Choose low-calorie treats such as carrot sticks or green beans for dogs.
- Avoid toxic foods: chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol and macadamia nuts.
Choosing food: a quick label guide
| Label term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Complete | Contains everything your pet needs as their main diet |
| Complementary | Not a full diet; treats and toppers |
| Life stage | Puppy/kitten, adult or senior formulations |
| Prescription or veterinary diet | For specific medical conditions; use under vet guidance |
Price is not always a guide to quality. Choose a complete food your pet does well on, with a firm stool, a healthy coat and steady weight, and change foods gradually over about a week to avoid stomach upset.
Body condition at a glance
Every couple of weeks, run your hands along your pet’s sides and look at them from above and from the side. Weigh them regularly if you can, using the same scales. Small changes are easier to correct than large ones.
Making exercise safe
- Warm up with a few minutes of walking before running or ball games.
- Avoid repetitive ball throwing, which can strain joints; mix it with sniffing and training.
- Watch for limping, stiffness or reluctance to jump.
- Avoid exercise on very hot days and in the middle of the day in summer.
- Build fitness gradually, especially after illness or in older pets.
Exercise basics
| Pet | General guide |
|---|---|
| Puppies | Short, gentle sessions; lots of play and sleep; avoid long, repetitive runs |
| Adult dogs | Daily walks suited to breed; many need an hour or more of activity |
| Senior dogs | Shorter, more frequent, gentler walks; swimming if suitable |
| Indoor cats | At least two play sessions a day; climbing and scratching posts |
| Outdoor cats | Play still matters, especially in winter |
Always build up exercise gradually, avoid strenuous walks in hot weather, and watch for signs of stiffness or reluctance, which can indicate pain.
Mental stimulation
- Sniff walks and scent games for dogs
- Puzzle feeders and scatter feeding
- Short daily training sessions
- Wand toys and “hunt” games for cats
- Rotating toys to keep them interesting
Dental health
Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats, and it can be painful. Signs include bad breath, red gums, tartar, dropping food and chewing on one side. Daily tooth brushing with a pet toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which can contain xylitol) is the gold standard. Dental chews and diets can help, but they are not a substitute for brushing and vet checks. Start gradually, with a finger brush and lots of praise.
Hydration
Fresh water should always be available. Dogs drink more after exercise and in warm weather. Cats often drink little, so wet food, a water fountain or several bowls around the house can help. A sudden increase in thirst in any pet is worth a vet visit, as it can be a sign of conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes.
Seasonal care in Ireland
- Winter: wipe paws after walks to remove grit and salt; keep older pets warm; watch for antifreeze, which is highly toxic.
- Spring: step up flea and tick prevention; watch for spring bulbs in the garden, which can be toxic.
- Summer: walk in the cooler parts of the day; never leave pets in cars; provide shade and water.
- Autumn: prepare for fireworks season from early October.
Routine vet care
- vaccinations as advised by your vet
- parasite control for fleas, worms and ticks
- dental checks and home tooth brushing
- an annual health check, or twice a year for older pets
- neutering advice
Where do supplements fit?
Supplements can have a place, but only once the basics are right. Vets commonly recommend some, such as omega-3 fish oil for certain dogs, and some owners choose to add pet CBD. Research on CBD in pets is growing but limited, and pet supplements cannot claim to treat any condition. Talk to your vet first, use only products made for pets, choose the strength by weight, and introduce one supplement at a time. Our CBD oils for pets come in 5%, 10% and 20% strengths, chosen by weight. Read CBD oil for pets: everything you need to know.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my pet is overweight?
You should be able to feel the ribs easily and see a waist. Ask your vet or vet nurse for a body condition check.
How much exercise does my dog need?
It depends on breed, age and health. Many adult dogs need an hour or more of activity a day; your vet can advise.
Is grain-free food better?
Not necessarily. Choose a complete food suited to your pet, and discuss special diets with your vet.
Can I feed my dog a raw diet?
Raw diets carry risks, including bacteria and nutritional imbalance. If you are considering one, talk to your vet first.
How often should my pet see the vet?
At least once a year for adults, and often twice a year for older pets.
What human foods are toxic to pets?
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, alcohol and caffeine, among others.
Do indoor cats need exercise?
Yes. Daily play keeps them fit, prevents boredom and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Should I give my pet supplements?
Only if there is a reason, and after speaking to your vet. A complete diet usually provides what a healthy pet needs.
Is pet CBD safe?
Studies in healthy dogs suggest it is generally well tolerated at moderate amounts. Speak to your vet first and use a product made for pets.
How can I help my pet lose weight?
Measure food, cut back on treats, increase activity gradually and ask your vet for a weight plan.
How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
Ideally every day. Even a few times a week makes a difference.
Can I share my dinner with my dog?
It is best not to. Many human foods are high in fat and salt, and some are toxic to dogs.
Are older pets less active because of age?
Sometimes, but slowing down can also be a sign of pain, such as arthritis, which is very treatable. Ask your vet.
How do I stop my cat getting bored indoors?
Play sessions, climbing spaces, window perches, puzzle feeders and rotating toys all help.
Should I give my pet vitamins?
Not usually, if they eat a complete diet. Some vitamins can be harmful in excess. Ask your vet first.
Is it okay to free-feed my dog?
Most dogs do better with measured meals at set times, which helps control weight and makes changes in appetite easier to spot.
Disclaimer: This article is general information and not veterinary advice. CBD pet products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult your vet before giving your pet any supplement, especially if they have a medical condition or take medication.
