As pet parents, we all want to make sure our furry friends are happy, healthy, and living their best lives. But sometimes, it can be hard to know when something’s wrong, especially if your pet is not showing obvious signs of illness. That’s where a GPS and health tracker for dogs or cats, like the one from Tractive, can be a real game-changer!

Tractive doesn’t just help you find your pet if they wander off (it’s great for that too!) – but it also helps you keep an eye on your pet’s activity levels, and alerts you of activity changes, which is one of the best ways to catch health issues early.

So here’s how Tractive’s health monitoring features can help keep your pet safe.

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What is “abnormal activity”?

First, let’s talk about what we mean by “abnormal activity.” Every pet is different, and their activity levels can vary based on age, breed, and personality. However, there are some general patterns you can look for.

If your dog or cat suddenly becomes more sluggish than usual, it could be a sign that something’s not quite right.

On the flip side, if they become unusually hyper or restless, it might also indicate an issue. These kinds of changes in behavior can sometimes be early warnings of health problems like joint pain, heart issues, or even things like infections or digestive issues.

Read More: How Tractive Helped This Dog Parent Catch An Illness Early

How can a GPS & health tracker help?

A GPS and health tracker like Tractive keeps track of your pet’s movements in real-time, recording how active or inactive they are throughout the day. This means you can easily spot when your pet’s behavior deviates from their usual patterns. Here’s how it works:

1) Get an idea of your pet’s normal activity levels

Over time, the tracker will build a profile of your pet’s daily activity, including how much exercise they’re getting, how often they’re walking, and how much rest they’re taking.

If your pet starts being less active or moves around less, you’ll see it right away.

2) Get alerts if there are changes in your pet’s behavior you should be aware of

With Tractive, you can set up Health Alerts to notify you if your pet’s activity level falls outside their normal range. For example, if your dog usually takes a walk in the morning and then plays for a while in the yard but suddenly becomes sedentary, you’ll get an alert. This could be a sign they’re feeling unwell.

3) Track sleep patterns too

Activity trackers also monitor your pet’s sleep patterns. If your pet is resting more than usual or sleeping at odd hours, it could be a sign that they’re not feeling their best. A sudden increase in sleep time or changes in their usual sleep schedule could indicate pain, stress, or even illness.

4) Share data with your vet

If you notice any changes in your pet’s activity levels, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet. With a Tractive GPS and health tracker, you can share your pet’s activity data directly with your vet, giving them valuable insights into your pet’s health. This can help them make more informed decisions and spot any issues early on.

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What could cause abnormal activity?

There are a lot of reasons why your pet’s activity levels might change, and it’s not always a sign of something serious. Sometimes, it’s just a case of the weather being too hot, or they’re having a lazy day. However, persistent changes in activity can be linked to various health issues, such as:

  • Joint Pain or Arthritis: Older pets or those with joint problems might move less because it hurts to walk or jump. If your dog or cat is showing less interest in playing or walking, it could be time for a check-up.
  • Heart or Respiratory Problems: If your pet is unusually tired or panting excessively, it could indicate heart or lung issues. The tracker can help you spot these signs early.
  • Digestive Problems: Pets with digestive issues might have less energy and rest more often. They may also refuse food or water, leading to dehydration.
  • Infections or Illness: Whether it’s a simple cold or something more serious, infections can lead to lethargy or excessive rest. Keep an eye on your pet’s activity and sleep patterns to catch any signs early.
  • Stress or Anxiety: Pets with anxiety might become more restless, pacing around or having difficulty settling down. On the other hand, some pets become withdrawn and overly quiet when they’re stressed.

Read More: 8 Pet Parents Who Keep Their Cats Healthy With Tractive

Why it’s important to act quickly

The earlier you notice abnormal activity in your pet, the sooner you can get them the help they need. A health tracker is a great way to keep tabs on your pet’s well-being, even when you’re not around. If you notice a consistent decrease in activity or any other signs of illness, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet as soon as possible. Catching problems early can lead to better outcomes and faster recovery times for your furry friend.

Peace of mind for pet parents

At the end of the day, having a GPS and health tracker for your pet offers you peace of mind. You’re not just tracking their location – you’re keeping an eye on their health and well-being. Whether you’re at work, traveling, or just relaxing at home, you’ll know that you’re doing everything you can to take care of your furry companion.

So, if you’re looking to keep your pet healthy, safe, and happy, consider getting a GPS and health tracker. With Tractive, you can monitor your pet’s activity, sleep, and health patterns, ensuring they’re living their best life.

Ready to track your pet’s health and activity? Visit Tractive’s shop to find the perfect GPS tracker for your pet!