Common Pet Care Myths Debunked by a Veterinarian

As veterinarians, we hear a lot of myths that can cause confusion or harm to people’s beloved pets. Let’s set the record straight!

Myth: “My pet doesn’t need yearly checkups.”
Truth: Annual exams catch issues early before they become serious.

• Many diseases develop quietly with little to no outward signs until they’re advanced. Regular wellness exams allow your veterinarian to detect early changes in weight, dental health, heart function, and lab values that can indicate the start of disease.
• Catching problems early not only helps your pet live longer but also saves you money on treatment costs down the road.
• Tip: Schedule routine preventive care, including bloodwork and dental cleanings to keep your pet thriving year-round.

Myth: “Grain-free diets are healthier.”
Truth: Not necessarily. In fact, they may increase heart disease risk.

• Grain-free foods became popular due to marketing — not science. In fact, the FDA has investigated a link between some grain-free, boutique, and exotic-ingredient diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) a potentially fatal heart disease in dogs.
• Grains provide beneficial nutrients, and most pets tolerate them well. Unless your pet has a documented allergy, there’s usually no reason to avoid them.
• Tip: Always discuss diet changes with your vet. We can help you choose a diet based on your pet’s medical needs, not online trends.

Myth: “Indoor cats don’t need vaccines.”
Truth: Indoor cats can still be exposed to preventable diseases.

• Even indoor cats can be exposed to fleas, mosquitoes, and viruses brought in on clothing, other pets, or open windows. Diseases like rabies and feline distemper are still seen in indoor cats, and prevention is far easier (and cheaper) than treatment.
• Additionally, many states, including North Carolina, legally require cats to be vaccinated against rabies.
• Tip: Ask your vet about core vaccines and parasite prevention suited for indoor lifestyles.

Myth: “I can give my pet human medication.”
Truth: Many human drugs are toxic to pets.

• Common drugs like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and cold medicines can cause severe kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal damage in pets even in small doses. Never medicate your pet without veterinary approval.
• Tip: Keep a list of safe, vet-approved medications for emergencies, and store all human meds securely.

Myth: “Dogs and cats show pain like humans do.”
Truth: Most pets hide pain instinctively.

• Dogs and cats have evolved to conceal discomfort to avoid appearing weak to predators. Subtle signs like changes in grooming, sleeping, appetite, or activity, may be the only clues something’s wrong.
• Tip: Trust your instincts, you know your pet best! If your pet “just isn’t themselves,” schedule a checkup. Early intervention prevents suffering and speeds recovery.

Myth: “Bad breath in pets is normal.”
Truth: Persistent bad breath is a sign of dental disease, not just a smelly quirk.

• Tartar buildup, gum disease, and oral infections are extremely common in pets and can cause pain, tooth loss, and even organ damage if bacteria spread through the bloodstream.
• Tip: Regular dental exams and professional cleanings can dramatically improve your pet’s health and lifespan.

At Charlotte Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to provide honest, evidence-based guidance to help your pet live a long and healthy life. No myths, just medicine.

Need personalized advice for your pet?

Schedule an appointment at Charlotte Veterinary Hospital! We’re here to help your furry family members live their happiest, healthiest life.