3 Types of Pet Meds Worth Having in Your Medicine Cabinet for Your Dog or Cat

It isn't often that our furry friends get sick or feel under the weather - and sometimes, they seem so enthusiastic and energetic, that we can hardly tell when things are bothering them. But behind the wagging tail or purring nudges, Fido or Fluffy may need a little human tender loving care. My vet recommends the following five types of pet meds to help keep my dogs and cats feeling their best, year-round:

Flea, Tick and Heartworm Medicines Keep Parasites at Bay

If your cat or dog goes outdoors, or even if they don't, you or your furry friend may unknowingly bring pests into your home, including fleas and ticks. These biting nuisances, in addition to being an aggravation for your pet, can also carry diseases such as Lyme Disease. Therefore, it's a good idea to keep a flea and tick preventative on hand as one of your go-to pet meds when the weather warms up and your pets are eager to go outside to play and prowl.

Heartworm medicine is another must-have and even though it's generally found in dogs, cats can also carry this condition. Contrary to popular belief, the worms in heartworm don't actually affect the heart, rather they clog the arteries in the lungs, leading to distressed breathing and other medical issues. Fortunately, today's pet meds are designed to be easy to give to your furry friends. Many come in simple spot treatments that last for months, and some medicines can be given as flavored "treats" so your pet doesn't wise up to the fact that he's taking a pill.

Arthritis and Pain Medicine Stave Off the Effects of Old Age

Our pets age considerably faster than we do, which means that they can feel the effects of old age, such as stiff and painful joints, much sooner than their human counterparts. The good news is that you can help slow the pain and stiffness of arthritis and other types of pain and inflammation with both prescription and non-prescription pet meds. These supplements are available as flavored food sprinkles, pills, liquid and tablets which can easily be tucked into a bite of cheese or a piece of tuna. They're designed in such a way as to prevent further deterioration of the joints, so that your pet can feel (and move) like a youngster again.

Vitamins and Supplements

This may not count under "pet meds" but it's still a vital part of your pet's health and well-being. Popular choices include glucosamine supplements, multivitamins and first-aid as well as grooming aids to prevent hairballs (in cats). The right vitamins and minerals can go a long way in improving your pet's coat, teeth, joints and flexibility. Plus, they're available as both crunchy and soft chew varieties, making "take your vitamins" time feel more like a reward.

My medicine cabinet is always stocked with these pet meds for my dogs and cats, and it has not only saved me money, but improved the quality of life for my pets year after year.