Monsoon pet care: A Delhi vet’s simple tips for dogs and cats

The first proper monsoon shower can feel like a reset button — cooler evenings, greener parks, and a fresh smell in the air. For many Indian pet parents, it also brings a familiar scene: dogs splashing through puddles with delight, while cats watch the rain from a safe, dry window.

Delhi-based veterinary surgeon **Nishanth Verma** says both kinds of pets need extra attention during the rainy season. “Pets are most prone to waterborne diseases, pododermatitis and ear infections during the monsoon. It is important to take extra care of them because they cannot tell us if they are facing a health problem,” he notes.

The encouraging part: a few simple, repeatable habits at home can help reduce common monsoon troubles.

Start with the paws (the easiest daily check) If your dog enjoys muddy walks, the moment you return home is a good time for a quick paw check. After every rainy outing, gently run a finger between the toes and around the paw pads. Mud, grit and moisture often get trapped in these spaces, leading to irritation.

Verma explains that damp conditions in parks and on wet streets can weaken the follicles and trigger inflammation in the paws. This may result in **pododermatitis** — a painful inflammation of the paws that can make walking uncomfortable.

**What you can do at home:** - **Rinse visible mud** with clean water rather than leaving it to dry and harden. - **Dry thoroughly**, especially between the toes and around the paw pads (not just the surface). - If your dog has longer fur, **trim the hair between paw pads** so it doesn’t hold dirt and moisture.

These steps are quick but effective, and they also help you notice early signs like redness, swelling or sensitivity.

Don’t ignore ears in wet weather Monsoon humidity can increase the chance of **ear infections**, especially in pets with floppy ears or those that get wet frequently. Moisture can stay trapped in the ear area after a walk or playtime, creating an environment where irritation may build.

A simple routine is to **check the ears regularly** after outdoor time and after baths. If the outer ear looks unusually red or your pet seems uncomfortable when you touch the area, it’s worth paying closer attention.

**Simple care habits:** - Keep the ear area **dry after rain exposure**. - Avoid letting water sit around the ears after baths. - If something feels “off” — persistent scratching, head shaking, or a strong smell — consider **consulting a vet** promptly rather than waiting.

Early action is usually easier and more comfortable for the pet.

Keep monsoon fun, but reduce the risks The rainy season is not just about problems — it can be enriching for pets, with cooler temperatures and more comfortable walks. The key is to pair that joy with a little extra prevention.

Verma flags monsoon risks such as **waterborne diseases** and seasonal skin issues. Since pets cannot tell us what feels wrong, small checks become an important part of everyday care.

A few practical tips that can fit into most routines: - After walks, do a **quick once-over** for dampness, dirt and anything stuck to the coat. - Keep bedding and resting spots **clean and dry**, especially if your dog comes in wet. - If your pet frequents wet areas, stay alert for early signs of discomfort and **seek veterinary advice** if symptoms persist.

Monsoon parenting is less about restricting your pet and more about creating a safe routine — so puddle-jumps can stay joyful, and rainy days can remain restful.

**Why it matters:** Small monsoon habits like paw checks, thorough drying and regular ear monitoring can help prevent avoidable seasonal illnesses, keeping pets healthier and helping families enjoy the rains with greater peace of mind.