6 Ways to Help Boost Your Pet's Immune System

Jan 23, 2023

To take care of our health, we do lots of things, from eating well to sleeping each night enough to exercising a few times a week. All these things strengthen our immune system, which fights off pathogens that threaten our health. But what can you do to ensure your cat or dog's immune system is maintained similarly?

Fortunately, improving your fur baby's immunity isn't difficult. Our furry friends don't have as much agency as we do with bolstering their health. It's up to us as to strengthen their immune systems and keep them healthy throughout their lives.  NOW Pets Immune Support is perfect to support your pet's immune system and improve their innate resistance to pathogens, as well as help enhance liver and kidney function.

For the healthiest, longest life possible, you can strengthen the army of tiny fighter cells that target and destroy harmful invaders. Here are six easy ways to help: 

1. EAT NUTRITIOUSLY

Food that's full of nutrients is essential to maintaining the immune system. Rebel Raw has you covered with optimal bioavailable nutrients— vitamins, minerals, and protein. We highly recommend Rebel Raw 😉.

2. STAY TRIM

Exercise does much more for our four-legged friends than help them shed weight and stay entertained throughout the day. Regular exercise releases endorphins and stimulates the lymphatic system, allowing the body to filter toxins adequately. Exercise also helps improve immunity in more direct ways by building a solid body and preventing obesity, which is linked to reduced immune health. Many cats and dogs experience joint flexibility and mobility issues as they age due to regular daily exercise and activity. This is why veterinarians often recommend a healthy diet complemented with health supplements to help alleviate the occasional discomfort associated with routine daily activity. NOW® Pets Joint Support is a health supplement formulated by renowned veterinarian Dr. Barbara Royal, DVM, CVA, founder of The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center.

3. MINIMIZE STRESS

People aren't the only ones affected by stress and anxiety. Pets are also prone to battling fear, anxiety, and stress. As more pet owners realize their pets are stressed and recognize the signs their pets show, they can take steps to create a calmer environment. Engage in daily activity with your pet, stick to similar routines, especially for cats, and create a haven for your pet. Be a calm role model for your pet; your pet is your best friend who is so in tune with your moods that they quickly pick up on your anxiety and stress. NOW Pets Pet Relaxant is formulated to promote relaxation and contentment during changes to your pet's daily routine, including separation, travel, motion sickness, and/or tension.

4. PET WITH PURPOSE

One of the easiest ways to help boost your pet's immune system is to give them a massage by gently kneading their fur and rubbing their muscles. Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, and the time out that you take to do it benefits you too. Win-win! Quality time with cats and dogs can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood while decreasing stress, improving heart health, and helps children with emotional and social skills. 

5. PROVIDING A STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT

New sights, smells, and sounds are essential to dogs and humans alike. They keep us interested and excited about life. So change your scenery once in a while by doing something new. Take a hike, walk in the woods or visit a friend. Socializing your dog will keep his mind and body active. 

All cats need mental stimulation, which is especially important for indoor cats. Providing an enriched environment can increase activity, decrease mental stagnation and prevent many issues. An enriched environment allows cats to create positive experiences in an enclosed space. The goal is to "create an environment of plenty" for your cat. That means plenty of room, litter boxes, food, water, and things to do.

6, KEEP TOYS CLEAN

It seems simple but cleaning toys at least once a week helps prevent illness. Bacteria is present in every mouth but can create issues when allowed to grow. The toys and bowls your pet use daily can be bacteria hotbeds. Daily washing these items with warm water (avoid dish soap because it could be toxic) can help eliminate germs. Also, thoroughly dry toys and bowls after washing, as bacteria can grow on anything damp.