There are a number of common pet problems facing owners, in terms of both health and behavior.
1. Inappropriate Elimination
One of the most common behavior problems facing owners is inappropriate elimination. This includes cats who don't use their litter box properly, and dogs who are not potty trained.
This can be caused by many different factors. If it appears suddenly, it may be caused by an illness, such as a urinary tract infection or incontinence in older dogs. The most common reason dogs are not potty trained is because they simply aren't taught properly. For cats, it can be caused by fear, such as a loud noise when in the litter box or a case of painful diarrhea that the cat attributes to the litter box. Just changing the location or the smell of the litter can often get your cat back to normal.
2. Destructive Behavior
Both cats and dogs can engage in a variety of destructive behavior, including tearing up or chewing on furniture and digging. This is usually caused by boredom, though it can also be caused by fear or separation anxiety.
It's important to provide your animal, even cats, with enough physical and mental stimulation. Even if you can't be home all the time, leave your pets with interactive toys and treats, so they have something to destroy besides your house or yard.
3. Aggression
Both cats and dogs can suffer from many types of aggression that often results in rehoming or euthanasia. This can be exhibited toward people in the house, visitors, another pet, other animals outside the home or strangers and may come in the form of growling, hissing, biting or scratching.
Aggression can be very frightening, but it is usually caused by fear. This can be avoided by socialization of young cats and dogs as well as creating positive associations with people or animals that your pet fears.
4. Allergies
Cats and dogs can both develop allergies, and it can be excruciating to watch your pet suffer through them. Allergies usually manifest through excessive itching or chewing, rashes, dry or scaly skin and hives. These allergies can be caused by the environment, food or fleas. Since symptoms are similar from all three of these, diagnosis is often made through elimination. Putting your dog on flea medication and switching food can often reduce symptoms.
5. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the most common health problems facing pets. It can be caused by many things, including various illnesses, ulcers, upset stomach, stress and diet changes. Most diarrhea is no cause for concern and will go away in a few days. However, if the diarrhea includes parasites, blood or mucous, consult your veterinarian because it could be caused by a more serious illness.
6. Airborne Illnesses
These differ between pets, but most can be prevented by vaccinations. If your pet visits pet-friendly places, such as dog parks, boarding facilities or groomers, be sure he is up to date on required vaccinations.