Your Every-Day 365 Essential Guide for Happy and Healthy Dogs and Cats

Pet Wellness 360: Your Essential Guide to a Happy, Healthy Dog and Cat - Petworld

Vannessa le Roux |

When it comes to our pets, wellness goes far beyond the annual vet checkup or a quick bath. It’s a 360° lifestyle approach that supports their physical health, emotional wellbeing, and daily comfort—from puppyhood and kittenhood right into their senior years.

Whether you're raising a boisterous pup or sharing your home with a dignified older cat, caring for them means being tuned into their changing needs. And let’s not forget: many South African homes have both dogs and cats under one roof, so understanding how to support each species without doubling your stress is a big part of the journey.

At Petworld, we believe every month should be Pet Wellness Month—but May is our chance to highlight what it truly takes to raise healthier, happier pets. This guide is your one-stop resource: a practical, compassionate roadmap that links to deeper advice, expert products, and services that make your life easier—and your pet’s life better.

Let’s jump into what pet wellness really means, starting with one of the most misunderstood topics of all: nutrition.

A Dachshund being measured with a tape measure showing he needs weight management and healthy nutrition.

1. Nutrition & Weight Management

Proper nutrition is the foundation of long-term wellness, yet it’s often the trickiest piece of the puzzle for pet parents. What makes a “good” diet? How much should your dog or cat eat? And what if they’ve put on a few kilos?

Just like in humans, poor nutrition can lead to a domino effect of health problems in pets—obesity, joint stress, poor coat condition, digestive issues, and even behaviour changes. And with over 50% of South African pets estimated to be overweight, weight management is a growing concern.

For dogs especially, a balanced, species-appropriate diet tailored to their age, breed, and lifestyle is essential for overall wellness. Cats, being obligate carnivores, have different nutritional needs—especially when it comes to protein content and hydration.

Whether you're dealing with a pudgy pup or a slightly-too-snug kitty, Petworld carries a carefully curated range of vet-recommended and customer-trusted foods to help manage weight without compromising on taste or nutrients.

Royal Canin Light Weight Care formulas – Designed to keep pets feeling full, while reducing calorie intake. Options available for both dogs and cats.

Hill’s Mobility and Perfect Weight – Clinically proven to reduce weight and keep it off, without the need for extreme calorie cutting. Options available for both dogs and cats.

Ultra Pet Special Diet for Weight Control and and Ultra Cat Special Diet Metabo-Lite  – Locally produced, affordable quality with precise energy content and balanced nutrition.

Montego Karoo Adult Metabolic & Sterilised – Excellent for dogs needing a lower-fat, lower-calorie alternative that’s still protein-rich and palatable.

You’ll also find weight-conscious treats in-store and online—like dried meats, dental chews, or natural snacks from Pets Elite and Lekker Barkery—that don’t load your pet with unnecessary sugars or grains.

Expert Tip: Always measure food portions with a scale or proper cup. “Eyeballing it” is a fast track to unwanted weight gain.

Read more: How to Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight, the ultimate guide to weight management

Read more: Keeping your pet hydrated

A peach-coloured poodle puppy with pink bow sits next to ginger and white kitten.

2. Preventative Health Care

Preventative care is the quiet hero of pet wellness. It’s not just about annual vaccinations—though those are vital—it’s about building a routine of regular checkups, parasite control, and monitoring your pet for subtle signs of illness. Most issues, when caught early, are far easier and less costly to treat.

The Fight Against Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks, for example, are not just warm-weather pests. In South Africa’s milder winter climate, they remain active year-round, especially in coastal and inland temperate zones. That’s why year-round protection is non-negotiable.

Petworld offers a wide range of effective preventative solutions:

  • Spot-on treatments for dogs and cats like Advantage, Frontline, and Ultrum
  • Oral chewables for long-lasting internal protection
  • Medicated shampoos to soothe irritated skin while killing parasites
  • F10 disinfectant for cleaning pet bedding, bowls, litter trays and toys – an essential step in parasite control and disease prevention

Our guide to flea and tick prevention in winter dives deeper into how cold weather doesn’t eliminate the risk.

Treating fleas and ticks in winter successfully - inside and out.

Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats

Ear infections are another common and preventable issue—especially in dogs with floppy ears or pets who swim often. Our article on ear infections in dogs and cats walks you through symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Read more: Your Guide to Pet Ear Infections 

The Importance of Dental Care

Dental health is often forgotten until there’s a bad smell or visible tartar. But routine dental care can extend your pet’s life and comfort. Petworld stocks:

  • Dental treats and chews
  • Enzymatic toothpastes and brushes
  • Water additives for daily maintenance

While we have a broad selection of dental products online, our in-store range is even wider, with staff happy to recommend what suits your dog or cat best.

Relaxin' and Chillin'

And don’t forget about calming and wellness supplements. If your pet is anxious at the vet or during grooming, consider our range of CBD products (more about these products later), herbal calming aids, or in-store exclusives like Feliway diffusers for cats.

3. Grooming & Skin Health

Grooming is often seen as a beauty treatment, but it’s actually a core part of your pet’s wellness plan. Regular brushing, bathing, haircuts, nail clipping and ear cleaning all play critical roles in preventing discomfort and health issues.

Seasonal changes often bring skin challenges—dryness in winter, allergies in spring. That’s why a tailored grooming routine can help reduce issues before they become serious.

Grooming Your Pet at Groomworld

At Petworld, our grooming services are designed not just for convenience but for your pet’s comfort and wellbeing. Whether it’s a haircut, deep clean, a de-shedding treatment, or a medicated bath for sensitive skin, our professional groomers tailor the experience to your pet’s specific needs.

You can easily book your appointment online through our Petworld grooming booking system, where you can learn more about what we offer and find a time that suits you.

What You'll Need for Grooming Your Pet at Home

In addition to grooming services, we offer a wide range of grooming products in-store and online:

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  • Medicated and hypoallergenic shampoos for dogs and cats with sensitive or itchy skin
  • Detangling sprays and coat conditioners
  • Brushes and de-shedding tools for various coat types
  • Nail clippers and paw balms for cracked or dry paw pads

Read more: How to Bath and Brush a Dog

Cats Too! Feline Grooming

And remember: grooming isn’t just for dogs. Long-haired cats especially benefit from regular brushing to prevent painful mats and hairballs. Our staff can guide you on the right tools and products for feline grooming at home.

Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your pet clean—it’s about spotting early warning signs like skin infections, lumps, parasites or joint discomfort that may otherwise go unnoticed and have long-tern negative impact on their general wellness.

Read more: Your guide to dog and cat ear care and management

A tabby cat jumps high off the trampoline, getting much need exercise and mental stimulation for excellent wellness.

4. Exercise & Mental Enrichment

Physical activity isn’t just about burning off energy—it’s essential for your dog’s joint health, weight management, and emotional balance. Without regular movement and stimulation, many dogs develop behavioural issues like chewing, digging, barking or anxiety. The same applies to cats, particularly indoor ones, who often suffer from boredom-related stress or obesity if their environment doesn’t engage their instincts.

Daily Walks and Mental Stimulation for Dogs

Dogs benefit from a consistent daily walk, but also from varied stimulation—think off-lead time in a secure area, fetch, tug games, agility training or scent work. Puzzle toys and slow feeders are excellent for dogs that eat too fast or need more mental stimulation. Petworld stocks a range of options, including interactive feeders and boredom-busting chew toys that challenge your dog to think while they play.

Enrichment and Playful Engagement for Cats

For cats, mental enrichment and wellness might look different but is just as important. Providing vertical spaces, scratching posts, hiding spots, and interactive toys (like wand teasers or automated laser toys) can help mimic natural behaviours. Catnip can be effective for encouraging playful engagement. In-store, we stock brands like Rogz and Kong, as well as locally made toys designed for South African cats and climates.

Regular, enriched activity is a key wellness pillar. It keeps your pet’s body and brain sharp, builds your bond, and can even help delay age-related decline.

Play some more! How play vitalises your pet

Read more: Tips for Taking Your Dog to the Beach

A cream coloured mixed breed dog shows off her emotional wellness with a great big smile, aided by human hands.

5. Emotional Wellness & Environment

Pets experience a range of emotions, from excitement to fear to boredom. Their mental and emotional health has a direct impact on their behaviour, physical health, and ability to adapt to life changes. And like humans, pets need a secure, stimulating environment to thrive.

Emotional Confidence in Dogs

For dogs, routine and predictability help build emotional confidence. Sudden changes—like a move, a new baby, or separation anxiety when you go back to work—can trigger destructive behaviours, withdrawal, or anxiety symptoms. Some pets show their stress through aggression, while others simply stop engaging or eating.

Feline Sensitivity to Change

Cats are particularly sensitive to change. Even moving a litter tray or introducing a new pet can cause stress responses. Scratching, hiding, excessive grooming or inappropriate urination may be signs your cat isn’t coping emotionally.

Petworld supports emotional wellness with a range of calming aids:

From The Barkery CBD Biscuits Dog Treats 175g - Petworld

From The Barkery CBD Biscuits Dog Treats 175g

Regal CBD Remedy Beef Flavour 400ml - Petworld

Regal CBD Remedy Beef Flavour 400ml

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  • CBD oils and chews for dogs who experience separation anxiety or travel stress
  • Herbal calming sprays and treats for daily use or high-stress events like storms
  • Feliway pheromone diffusers (available in-store), ideal for multi-cat households or nervous cats adjusting to new environments
  • Environmental enrichment plays a role in overall wellness, too. Soft bedding, safe retreat areas, and access to sunlight or fresh air can improve mood and promote restful sleep. Routine grooming, gentle touch, and positive reinforcement training also build confidence and reduce stress—especially in rescue animals or pets with a traumatic past.

Being emotionally well doesn’t mean your pet is never scared or stressed—it means they have the tools, routines, and environment to recover, adapt, and feel secure.

How a cat can improve Your mental health!

Anxiety in Dogs and cats - pet detectives on the case!

Sound tips and tricks on keeping your feline cool 

Pets and Fireworks - keeping your pets calm

A unhappy cat strands under an umbrella protecting herself from the autumn leaves and winter skies while holding an ice-cream.

6. Seasonal and Life-Stage Wellness Care

Just like people, pets have changing wellness needs throughout their lives—and as seasons shift, so do the challenges they face. Puppies, kittens, seniors, and pets with health conditions all require tailored attention, and South Africa’s climate adds its own seasonal considerations.

Winter Parasites and Summer Heat Stress

In winter, parasites like ticks and fleas don’t vanish—they just become less obvious. Our article on flea and tick prevention in colder months explains why year-round protection remains critical. Summer, on the other hand, brings heat stress and hydration challenges, particularly for brachycephalic breeds and long-haired pets. Ensure constant access to fresh water and consider elevated or cooling beds to reduce overheating.

Senior Pets and Mobility

Older pets, especially large-breed dogs and senior cats, may struggle more with mobility in colder weather. Joint supplements, orthopaedic bedding, and gentle daily exercise can make a big difference. Petworld stocks trusted brands of mobility-support supplements and calming aids to help senior pets stay comfortable and active.

Nutrition Key: The Importance of Life-Stage Feeding

Life-stage nutrition is also key to long-term wellness. Puppies and kittens need more energy, calcium, and immune support, while senior pets benefit from lower-calorie, joint-protective diets. We offer a variety of age-specific foods, including:

Royal Canin Puppy and Kitten ranges

Hill’s Mature Adult and Senior blends

Ultra Pet Senior formulas

Joint-support kibbles

Adjustments for Seasonal Grooming Needs

For seasonal grooming, adjust your schedule and products. In winter, use moisturising shampoos to prevent dry skin. In warmer months, brushing more frequently helps manage shedding. Booking regular grooms through Petworld’s online grooming service can help you stay ahead of seasonal coat changes and skin issues.

Proactive wellness care for every season and life stage means your pet is always supported in the ways they need most—before problems arise.

Keeping Cool in Summer for Dogs

Keeping Cool in Summer for Cats

Senior Dog Foods

7. Conclusion and Next Steps

True pet wellness isn’t about reacting when something goes wrong—it’s about creating a lifestyle that keeps your pet feeling good, moving well, and living fully. It’s built on consistent, thoughtful care that takes into account every part of their lives—from what they eat to how they sleep, play, and feel emotionally.

This guide is your starting point for overall wellness, but it’s also a gateway. Each section connects you to deeper resources and expert advice that can help you take real, actionable steps toward better care for your dog—and your cat, too. Whether you’re raising a new puppy, supporting a senior dog, or managing the dynamics of a multi-pet household, Petworld is here to walk the journey with you.

Next steps:

Our team at Petworld is made up of real pet lovers who know what it means to care. We’re proud to stock expert-trusted brands, offer compassionate in-store services, and support the wellbeing of pets and their people—every day of the year.

Because at Petworld, we believe wellness isn’t a trend. It’s a promise.

Frequently Asked Questions: Pet Wellness 360

1. What does pet wellness actually mean?

Pet wellness is a holistic approach to keeping your pet physically healthy, emotionally balanced, and mentally stimulated. It includes nutrition, grooming, preventative care, exercise, emotional wellbeing, and adapting care to life stage and season.

2. How do I know if my pet is overweight?

Common signs include difficulty feeling ribs, low energy, and a lack of a waistline. Weight gain can lead to joint issues and reduced lifespan. Try vet-approved foods like Royal Canin Satiety or Hill’s Metabolic, and consult with your vet for portion advice. Remember slow and steady weight loss is required - no crash diets or sudden changes to your pet's food.

3. Do I need to treat my pets for fleas and ticks in winter?

Yes. South Africa’s mild winters mean parasites remain active year-round. Use spot-on treatments, oral preventatives, and F10 disinfectants to stay protected.

4. What grooming steps should I take regularly?

Brush your dog or cat often, bathe when needed with a quality or medicated shampoo, and keep nails trimmed. Book professional grooming at Petworld via our Groomworld online system for tailored services.

5. How can I keep my dog or cat mentally stimulated?

Use puzzle toys, training games, and interactive feeders for dogs. Cats benefit from climbing structures, teaser toys, and safe spaces. Mental stimulation is essential for wellness as it reduces boredom and anxiety.

6. What signs show that my pet is stressed or anxious?

Look for panting, hiding, aggression, excessive grooming, or clinginess. Use calming products like CBD chews, herbal sprays, or Feliway diffusers (in-store).

7. Do pets need different care depending on their age or the season?

Yes. Puppies and kittens need more energy and immune support, while seniors need joint care and lighter diets. In summer, focus on hydration and heat relief; in winter, watch for skin dryness and joint stiffness.

8. Where can I get expert help or products for my pet’s wellness?

At Petworld, both online and in-store. We offer trusted nutrition brands, parasite treatments, grooming services, calming products, and expert guidance to help your pet live well every day.

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