7 Pet Parenting Mistakes to Avoid

Ever had a moment of clarity where you realised your behaviour towards your pup or kitty has set them back? Welcome to pet parenting mistakes. Don’t worry, we’ve all made them. In this blog, we cover pet parenting mistakes and how to avoid them. We also share useful tips that include cat and dog training info.

Read on…

Not sure what we mean by pet parenting mistakes? Maybe your cat has trained you for their chosen mealtime by complaining at the crack of dawn or you let your pup jump on guests because they’re still small and manageable (but won’t be for long). Or perhaps you’re too loud and frequent with admonishments, rather than encouraging training gently but firmly.

Here are seven of the most common pet parenting mistakes. How many have you made?

1. Pet parenting mistake – inconsistent training

It’s a story many of us know well. You’re trying to get your pup onto a healthy diet, while another family member is sneaking them treats. Or maybe you’re trying to train a command while someone else is sending mixed signals.

Remember that new pets don’t know the rules of your home – it’s up to you to teach them. Keep it consistent. Make sure all family members are on the same page and encourage the same behaviours in the same ways.

Family chat before you adopt your new dog? Honest convo when the new cat comes home? Best to do it sooner rather than later. And if you’re looking for some training tips, check out these easy dog training tricks.

Pets thrive on routine…

This needs to be emphasised – pets thrive on routine and consistency. When this doesn’t happen they can become confused and anxious. This could lead to a range of behavioural problems that you really, really want to avoid.

Truth be told a huge pet parenting mistake is when you’re inconsistent with your dog or cat’s training, which goes hand-in-hand with establishing a routine. You’re giving off mixed signals. For example, if you let Fido jump up on the couch one day and then scold him for doing it the next, how will he get to learn your groove?

Inconsistent cat training can be really frustrating for both your feline and you. If your cat doesn’t know what you expect of them, they’ll act out in frustration (get ready for an ‘Are you fur-real?’ cattitude).

Reinforce the boundaries…

Here’s the truth and nothing but the truth – consistent dog or cat training means setting clear boundaries. When your pet knows what’s expected of them, they’re more likely to behave appropriately.

This means setting consistent rules and sticking to them. For example, even if your cat looks at you with those big round eyes and purrs at your ankles don’t give in to scooping more food. Stick by your routine because it sets a precedent that will give your pet a sense of security in the long run.

2. Letting them be a loner

While some dog and cat breeds are naturally more outgoing others need a bit more coaxing or prefer more along time. Ideally, your pet will develop the social skills they need to get along with other people and pets which is why you need to socialise them early on.

• Cats. Socialising cats is straightforward. Invite guests over and have them gently, slowly get to know your cat. Keep in mind that some cats are naturally more aloof while others like to cuddle but if you don’t want your kitty quivering under the bed every time you have guests then it’s vital to get them used to the sights and sounds of new people early on.
• Dogs. Dogs are socialised in a similar way but it’s even more important to socialise your pup with other dogs. This can be done through puppy training classes, doggy daycare, park walks and introducing your pup to the pets of trusted friends and family.

Some of the other risks of not socialising them well can include aggression and separation anxiety in pets. Watch the video below on preventing and treating separation anxiety in dogs and cats.

3. Unhealthy eating habits is a big pet parenting mistake

Some pets can be free-fed (the practice of always having pet food available) and will self-manage their eating. Others are highly food-motivated and will vacuum down any morsel of pet food put in front of them, even if they aren’t hungry.

The situation can become even more complicated if you have multiple pets with different eating habits.

It’s vital to tailor your feeding schedule and even feeding locations (for multi-pet households) to each pet. Overeating, resource guarding and pet food insecurity can cause health and mental problems. Nip this in the bud as quickly as possible!

Here are some top resources on healthy pet nutrition:

• Pet food insights
• Helping your dog eat dry food
• Choosing between dry cat food vs wet
• Avoiding pet obesity 

Sidenote: As a new pet parent, what are you going to do when your pup or kitty breaks their tooth on something hard they’ve decided to chomp on? Unfortunately, this happens often (read our pet dental insurance article). 

There are so many other potential pet dental issues to be aware of from a tooth abscess in dogs to gingivitis in cats. Luckily our PD Insurance Deluxe dog insurance and cat insurance covers a range of dental treatments for your pet, capped at an annual limit. 

We think it’s important because getting your pet proper dental work can give them a happier, longer life. 😺

4. Sharing medication

One of the pet parenting mistakes you may not have even realised was possible is sharing medication with your fur baby. It’s true that some human medication can be given to pets but taking this chance is fraught with danger! Only a vet knows the ins and outs and can prescribe appropriate medication.

The same goes for giving your cat your dog’s medicine (or vice versa). Even if they’re the same size and weight some cat medicines are toxic to dogs and the inverse applies too. An accident with medication can cause serious illness or death so it’s always better to check with your vet.

As a new pet parent, it’s best to arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can by reading plenty of pet health-related articles. Here are some helpful guides:

1. Your Need-to-Knows on Leptospirosis in Dogs and Cats
2. Cat and Dog Eye Infections: Symptoms, Remedies, and More
3. Pet Vaccinations and Schedules in NZ
4. Arthritis in Cats: What Do Vets Recommend?
5. What You Need to Know About Pancreatitis in Dogs

While we’re busy ruling out what not to do, read these 17 ways to be a rocking pet parent for what to do.

5. Too much tough love

Every pet parent knows the frustration of having your freshly planted hydrangeas dug up or your favourite pair of shoes decimated. While it’s understandable to be on the verge of losing your cool, remember your pets react strongly to your tone of voice and body language.

You may think you’re being firm but fair, however, a sensitive pet can become stressed if your parenting style doesn’t match their personality.

If you notice any of these responses, it’s time to take a step back and correct this pet parenting mistake by taking a gentler approach:

• Aggression
• Attempting to hide
• Hyperactivity
• Lack of appetite
• Loss of toilet training
• Lowered body language
• Shaking/trembling
• Whale eye (showing whites of eyes)

A great way to avoid tough love is by using reward-based cat and dog training, also known as positive reinforcement training. When your cat or dog behaves appropriately reward them with treats, praise or affection. This will help reinforce the behaviour you want to see and encourage your pet to continue behaving well.

Not only does this dog and cat training method work well in helping your pets learn but it’s a great way to bond too.

6. Pet parenting mistakes include not enough play

Some breeds – particularly those with high intelligence or predisposed to being working dogs – need much more mental stimulation than a cat or your faithful lapdog. That’s where pet toys and games come into the picture.

When your tried-and-tested games just aren’t holding their interest, try new things like teaching commands, hiding treats, puzzles, or hide-and-seek. The result of this pet parenting mistake is that your bored pet may resort to destroying your furniture, garden, or clothes as a source of entertainment or to even get your undivided attention.

Read about the importance of playtime for Kiwi dogs and cats to learn more about the wonderful benefits.

Now, we understand it’s not always possible to stay at home and keep your pet entertained. The video below shows you how to keep your dog occupied at home, keeping them active and stimulated while avoiding destructive behaviour…

7. Being unprepared for pet emergencies

When you bring a new pet home the last thing on your mind is illness or accidents. With the pet insurance vs savings decision, it’s worth keeping in mind that vet treatment can quickly spiral into thousands of dollars. This is just another reason more Kiwis are choosing pet insurance for cats and dogs.

No one wants to find themselves in the heartbreaking situation of deciding between their dollars or their pet. Avoid this pet parenting mistake by exploring your pet insurance options (more on this below).

Give them a soft landing with pet insurance

What’s a quick, easy way to be a financially responsible pet parent and avoid pet parenting mistakes? Get pet insurance. Not only can it help safeguard your bank account when your pet is unwell or injured but it can also help in other situations like if your pet accidentally hurts someone else’s pet or damages their property.

Pet insurance reduces the out-of-pocket expense for non-routine vet visits, prescription medication, treatment for accidents, illnesses and more. We’re the low-cost, value-rich cover and care you need to be the best pet parent.

Did you know that if you buy your pet pawlicy online with PD Insurance you can also get one or more months for free? Why not take two minutes to get a quote? Click below to start today.