Hamari Sehat, Unki Sehat! (Our Health, Their Health!): Lifestyle Diseases in Pets 🩺

 

Just like us, our pets are now facing the pressures of modern life—less activity, richer food, and a more sedentary lifestyle. The diseases we commonly worry about for ourselves (jaise ki diabetes and dil ki bimari) are now affecting our furry family members too!

These are called “lifestyle diseases”, and they stem from a lack of routine, poor diet, and insufficient exercise. Here are the most common issues and how they connect back to your pet’s daily life.

 

1. Obesity (Motaapa) 🍔

 

This is the number one lifestyle problem in pets today.

• The Cause: Too many treats, too much table scrap feeding (humara khana), and too little walking.
• The Danger: Obesity is the root of many problems, leading to diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
• The Solution: Constant monitoring. Establish a strict feeding and exercise routine—no exceptions!

 

2. Dental Problems (Daanton Ki Takleef) 🦷

 

If you skip your daily brushing, you get problems. Your dog is no different.

• The Cause: Lack of regular teeth brushing and proper dental chews/toys.
• The Danger: Plaque and tartar lead to gum disease, which allows bacteria to travel to the heart, liver, and kidneys.
• The Solution: Regular dental care must be part of your routine—brushing at least 3-4 times a week, or as advised by your vet.

 

3. Diabetes and Arthritis 🩹

 

These are often direct consequences of not staying active.

• Diabetes: Linked directly to obesity and a high-carb, low-quality diet. The fix starts with weight management.
• Arthritis (Jodon Ka Dard): Lack of activity, especially in senior dogs, weakens joints. Being overweight makes the pain much worse. The Solution: Keep them active within their comfort level, and manage their weight rigorously.

 

4. Behavioral Issues and Anxiety 🤯

 

A bored dog is a destructive or anxious dog. Their mind needs work as much as their body.

• The Cause: Lack of mental stimulation, not enough physical activity, and a lack of socialisation.
• The Danger: This leads to destructive chewing, excessive barking, digging, or crippling separation anxiety (jab aap ghar se jaate hain).
• The Solution: Enrol in behaviour training, provide puzzle toys (food for the mind!), and ensure they get enough daily physical work.

 

5. Urinary and Digestive Woes 💧

 

These are often simple plumbing problems related to the diet we control.

• Urinary Tract Issues: Often caused by not enough water intake or poor diet choices that affect pH balance. The Solution: Always provide clean, fresh water and make sure they get enough bathroom breaks.
• Digestive Disorders: Caused by giving inappropriate, fatty, or highly processed human foods, or simple overfeeding. The Solution: Stick to a balanced, species-appropriate pet food.

 

The Biggest Takeaway: Routine and Prevention

 

Our dogs trust us completely to provide for them. Lifestyle diseases in pets are a mirror of our own habits. By introducing daily discipline—consistent exercise, controlled portions, and hygiene routines—you are not just caring for them; you are preventing severe illness and ensuring your beloved companion lives a long, healthy life alongside you.