A Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership

Responsible pet care goes beyond providing food and a roof over your pet’s head. It’s about meeting all of their needs – physical, mental, and emotional – so they can live happy, healthy lives. Whether you share your home with a playful dog, a curious cat, or a pair of small furries, each has specific requirements that deserve thoughtful care.

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Diet
  • Dogs: A balanced diet supports energy, healthy weight, and long-term wellbeing. Portion control and avoiding harmful foods are just as important as quality.
  • Cats: As obligate carnivores, cats need meat-based diets for essential nutrients like taurine. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, so measured meals are key.
  • Rabbits & Guinea pigs: Fibre is the foundation of their diet. Unlimited hay, fresh greens, and (for guinea pigs) vitamin C-rich foods are essential for digestion and dental health.
Exercise
  • Dogs: Regular walks, play and enrichment keep dogs fit, mentally stimulated and can reduce behavioural issues.
  • Cats: Rather than needing walks, cats benefit from toys, climbing, and interactive play to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Rabbits & Guinea pigs: Safe, spacious exercise areas are vital. They need daily time outside their hutch to run, hop, and explore to stay physically and mentally stimulated.
Socialisation
  • Dogs: Early exposure to people, pets, and new environments helps prevent behavioural issues. Training and enrichment also support mental wellbeing.
  • Cats: Many cats prefer a quieter life, but enrichment through toys, scratching posts, and safe exploration helps them thrive.
  • Rabbits & Guinea pigs: These are social animals who need companionship of their own kind. Providing bonded pairs or groups helps meet their social needs.
Vet checks
  • Dogs & cats: Preventative care such as routine vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and regular vet visits help to ensure long term health & well-being
  • Rabbits & Guinea pigs: Annual health checks, vaccinations (for rabbits), and monitoring teeth are vital. Small furries often hide illness, so regular vet care is crucial.
Microchipping
  • Dogs: Microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK and the best way to reunite lost dogs with their owners. Collars with ID tags provide an extra layer of safety.
  • Cats: From June 2024, microchipping is also a legal requirement for cats over 20 weeks. It’s essential as many cats roam outdoors and can easily get lost.
  • Rabbits & Guinea pigs: While not required by law, microchipping rabbits is advisable, especially if they spend time outdoors. Secure housing and supervision remain key forms of protection.

At CDCH, we’re dedicated to giving every animal a chance at a happy, healthy life. You can help make a difference beyond your own home by choosing to sponsor or foster an animal today.

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At CDCH, we’re dedicated to giving every animal a chance at a happy, healthy life. You can help make a difference beyond your own home by choosing to sponsor or foster an animal today.

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