Monthly Pet Care Checklist: What to Do Every Month for a Healthy Pet

Keep your furry friend healthy and happy with this easy monthly pet care checklist! From grooming to parasite prevention, All Furry Tales shares essential tips and top pet product picks.

8/4/20253 min read

person holding pink iphone case
person holding pink iphone case

Keeping your furry friend happy and healthy doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a simple monthly checklist, you can stay on top of your pet’s wellness without stress. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned paw-rent, regular monthly care helps prevent health issues and keeps tails wagging and whiskers twitching!

At All Furry Tales, we know you want the best for your pets — so here’s your go-to monthly pet care guide, with recommended products to make life even easier.

1. Health Check at Home

Just like humans, pets benefit from regular health check-ins. Once a month, do a quick physical exam at home and record in a journal:

  • Check ears for redness, wax build-up, or bad smells

  • Inspect eyes for discharge or cloudiness

  • Look over the skin and coat for lumps, bumps, or fleas

  • Examine paws, pads, and nails

  • Observe their energy levels, appetite, and bathroom habits

2. Dental Care Time

Dental disease is super common in both dogs and cats — and it can lead to serious health problems if ignored. Aim to brush your pet’s teeth at least once a week, but do a thorough check every month.

3. Grooming Session

Even short-haired pets need regular grooming. A monthly session is the perfect opportunity to check for skin issues and keep them looking fresh:

  • Brush out dead hair and check for mats or tangles

  • Trim nails (if needed)

  • Wipe down paws, especially if they’ve been outside

  • Clean ears with a vet-recommended solution

4. Flea, Tick & Worming Treatment

Set a monthly reminder to stay on top of parasite prevention — even indoor pets can pick up nasties like fleas or worms.

  • Apply a vet-recommended flea and tick treatment

  • Give a monthly worming tablet or spot-on solution

  • Wash pet bedding to eliminate lingering pests

5. Wash Their Bedding

Would you sleep in the same sheets for a month without washing them? Your pet shouldn’t have to either! Clean bedding keeps your pet comfy and helps prevent skin irritations and odours.

  • Wash bedding, blankets, and soft toys in pet-safe detergent

  • Vacuum around their sleep area

  • Wipe down kennels, crates, or litter boxes

6. Restock & Rotate Supplies

Once a month is a great time to check your supplies and restock anything running low:

  • Food, treats, and supplements

  • Litter, poop bags, and grooming tools

  • Check expiry dates on medications and parasite treatments

  • Rotate toys to keep your pet mentally stimulated

7. Bonding & Mental Stimulation Check-In

Pets thrive on routine and enrichment. Take stock of their mental health each month:

  • Have you played enough puzzle games or tried new toys?

  • Are they getting enough exercise and stimulation?

  • Is your routine still working for them?

Consider switching up walks, introducing new training games, or getting a fresh toy to keep things exciting.

8. Review Vet & Insurance Needs

Even if there’s no appointment due, monthly is a good time to glance over your pet’s health plan:

  • Are vaccinations up to date?

  • Do you need to book in for an annual check-up or dental?

  • Is your pet insurance active and adequate?

Keep copies of documents in a designated folder or digital file so you’re never caught off guard.

Final Woof (or Meow!)

Taking just a bit of time each month to check in on your pet’s needs can add years of happiness and health to their life. Small routines — like brushing, checking teeth, or giving a monthly flea treatment — all add up.

And don’t forget: your attention, affection, and presence are just as vital as any product.

So snuggle up, scratch those ears, and celebrate another healthy month with your best friend!

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