Fall into Healthy Pet Habits: Your Furry Friend’s Autumn Checklist

Hi there, pet-lovers! I’m Shirley, founder of Your Furry Godmothers LLC, and if you’re anything like me you’re ready to embrace the cozy vibes of autumn—but also ready to roll up your sleeves when it comes to caring for your furry family members. As the weather changes, our pets have their own shifts in needs. Let’s walk through what you can do this fall to help them thrive.

1. Keep moving (even when it’s cooler)

With cooler days, it’s tempting to skip a walk or think that indoor time is enough. But staying active is super important. For dogs, aim for regular walks or play sessions. For cats, tweak their playtime to keep them moving around—especially if they’ve been dozing through the summer. Regular activity helps weight control, joint health, and mood.

2. Check the diet and hydration

Even though it’s not blazing hot, pets still need water—and plenty of it. Cooler air can be deceptively drying. And with fall comes changes in metabolism and appetite for some animals. Stick to a consistent, high-quality diet appropriate for your pet’s life stage (and medical needs). If you notice less interest in food, or weight changes, that might signal it’s time to chat with a vet or adjust feeding.

3. Monitor coat, skin, and paws

Falling leaves, cooler weather, and lower humidity can all affect skin and coat. Watch for dryness, flakiness, or extra licking/chewing. Make sure after outdoor time you wipe off paws and fur—especially if your pup or kitty has been rolling in fallen leaves, damp grass, or even debris. A gentle grooming session helps. Older pets may show more signs of discomfort in joints when the weather shifts, so keeping them comfortable matters.

4. Update preventive care

Just because summer’s heat is fading doesn’t mean pests are gone. Ticks, fleas, and other critters can still pose a risk in many regions. Check that flea/tick preventives, heartworm meds (if relevant), and vaccinations are on track. If your pet is aging or has health issues, it might be a smart time for a fall wellness check-in with your vet.

5. Stay safe in changing environments

Fall brings leaf piles, hidden debris, damp grass, and even early evening darkness. That means a higher chance of stepping on something sharp, chewing something they shouldn’t, or being less visible outdoors. For dog walkers (hello, me!) it means using a reflective leash/harness if you’re out later. For cats, supervising outdoor time or limiting exposure to risky areas could help.

6. Watch for seasonal changes in behavior or health

Does your pet seem slower, less playful, or reluctant to walk? Older pets in particular may feel cooler weather in their joints or bones. Some pets’ allergies shift in the fall (due to mold or pollen), and skin/ear issues may pop up. Keeping a closer eye on behavior changes helps you catch signs early.

7. Adjust indoor comfort

As our homes shift from air-conditioning to maybe using a heater, you’ll want to check that your pet’s resting area stays comfortable—not too dry, not too warm, not drafty. Senior animals especially appreciate soft bedding, accessible spaces (no high jumps if joints are stiff), and maybe even a warm pad or blanket placed safely.

8. Make the most of outdoor time

The crisp fall air and changing scenery are a gift for pets and their humans. Use this season to enjoy extra walks, sniff-ventures, maybe try a new dog-friendly trail or explore a new neighborhood. For cats, you might adjust playtime to mornings or evenings when it’s cooler. The fresh air and new smells stimulate both mind and body.

9. Prepare for holiday or travel triggers

Before Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any fall travel, think ahead: Is the pet-sitter aware of the change? Are there decorations (candles, wires, chocolate) you need to keep out of reach? Are travel crates comfortable? Are there boarding or in-home sitting plans in place if you’ll be away? Being proactive helps avoid stress for you and your pet.

10. Build routines that matter

One of the best things you can do this fall is create or reinforce routines. Dogs and cats appreciate consistency—walks, meals, check-ins, playtime. A reliable rhythm reduces stress and helps you spot deviations (which might signal something’s up). And if you’re using a walker, sitter, or are the caregiver yourself, documenting the routine helps maintain stability.

Fall is a fantastic season to deepen your connection with your pet, treat them with extra care, and keep them comfortable as the season shifts. If you’re in Oklahoma City (or surrounding neighborhoods) and you’d like help with regular dog walking, senior-pet check-in visits, or in-home care—Your Furry Godmothers LLC is here for you. Let’s keep your beloved pets happy, healthy, and well-cared-for through every season.

Thanks for reading—and here’s to crisp air, golden leaves, and wagging tails (and purring friends) all autumn long.

Book your Holiday needs today to ensure you get the times you need. Book online at yourfurrygodmothers.com or call/text us at (405) 673-3306 soon! We can't wait to meet you and your fur babies!