Hamburg. Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in pets. Statistics show that about 25 percent of all pets fall ill with cancer over the course of their lives, and in dogs over ten years the risk increases up to 50 percent. These numbers are alarming and make it clear how important it is to take preventive measures.
Dr. Lena Sötje, senior veterinarian of the Medivet practices in Hamburg-Stellengen and Pinneberg, emphasizes on the occasion of World Cancer Day that prevention is a decisive factor not only for humans, but also for their pets.
“A healthy lifestyle is the best prevention against cancer – and that also applies to our four -legged friends. Any conscious decision for the health of our animals can help extend their lives and increase their quality of life. ”
Five simple steps for cancer prevention
Dr. Sötje recommends animal owners to integrate the following measures into everyday life in order to reduce the risk of cancer in their animals:
- Smoke -free environment: “Passive smoking is one of the most common causes of cancer in the airways and in the mouth area, especially in cats and dogs,” explains Dr. Sötje.
- Balanced diet: High quality, fresh food can strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammatory processes. Pre -finished feed with artificial additives should be avoided.
- Weight control: Obesity increases the risk of chronic inflammation and thus also for different types of cancer. Regular movement and adapted feeding are crucial.
- Regular preventive examinations: “Early diagnoses save life. Annual check-ups at the vet can help to recognize diseases early and to treat them in good time. ”
- Avoid stress: “A calm, stress -free environment not only promotes the well -being of the animals, but also strengthens their immune system.”
Dr. Sötje calls on pet owners to actively exercise responsibility for the health of their pets. “A healthy lifestyle for our animals begins with our daily decisions – and they make the difference in the long term.”
About Dr. Lena Sötje
Dr. Lena Sötje is a senior veterinarian of the Medivet practices in Hamburg-Stellingen and Pinneberg. She studied at the Hanover University of Veterinary Medicine and did her doctorate at the Free University of Berlin. Her passion is for small animal medicine and provision.