A vet has highlighted three critical errors that many pet owners make which could be cutting short their beloved companions' lives. Amir Anwary used TikTok to reveal where he believes owners are going wrong.

"Our pets' lives are already so short," he said. "So we should do everything we can to prevent their lives from being even shorter!" Amir emphasised that these three factors have a more damaging impact than genetics alone.

While veterinary expenses can be unexpectedly steep, addressing potential problems early could ultimately save you considerable sums.

Chronic obesity

"If you have a pet and they are consistently overweight and you are feeding them way too much, then this may cause chronic inflammation, heart disease, joint degeneration and insulin resistance," Amir explained.

He cautioned that allowing animals to remain overweight for extended periods is amongst the quickest ways to diminish both their quality of life and longevity.

Poor dental care

Amir highlighted that when dogs or cats have poor oral hygiene, the consequences extend far beyond unpleasant breath - they're harbouring dangerous levels of bacteria.

He added: "This bacteria can spread from their mouth to the bloodstream and to their internal organs such as their liver, kidneys and spleen. So make sure you are doing something to take care of your pet's oral health."

Waiting too long

Amir also highlighted that "skipping" vet visits or "waiting too long" until your pet becomes more ill before taking them to the clinic can be extremely harmful to their health. "I've seen this so often as a veterinarian," he stated.

"Owners will wait until their pets become more ill and then they will bring them in. By this time the cancer has advanced, the joint degeneration has worsened, the kidney disease has progressed."

Amir urged: "Bring them in sooner rather than later. This will make the treatment significantly cheaper and we can preserve as much of that quality of life as possible."

Writing in in response, one TikTok user sought further guidance, asking: "What is the best way to help their dental health?"

To which Amir recommended: "Brushing their teeth or using a dental powder!"

A second individual shared their experience: "My two-year old Yorkie won't let anyone, not even me, go anywhere near his mouth. I tried brushing his teeth from an early age but it's impossible.

"My vet can't even check his teeth! I use dental sticks, water solution and I sprinkle plaque powder in his food."

While a third person detailed their techniquie: "I brush my dog's teeth twice a week (she hates it) and use a finger wipe to clean her mouth daily. I floss her teeth once in a while when she's relaxed enough. We're super normal."