9 Things Dog and Cat Owners Worry About (And How to Stop)

Owning a dog or cat is one of life's greatest pleasures — but it comes with a very particular kind of worry. The 3am panic about whether they're comfortable. The guilt of leaving them alone. The nagging feeling that you could be doing more. Sound familiar? You're not alone. These are the 9 worries we hear from pet owners most often — and the good news is, every single one of them has a straightforward solution.

1. "My Dog's Joints Are Getting Worse and I Don't Know How to Help"

Joint pain and stiffness is one of the most common and heartbreaking issues in older dogs — and it often goes unnoticed until it's quite advanced. If your dog is slower to get up, reluctant to use the stairs, or restless at night, their sleeping surface could be making things significantly worse. A standard flat bed offers no pressure relief for aching joints. The 3-in-1 Multifunction Dog Bed Mat & Sofa Cushion is designed to keep your pet warm, supported, and comfortable — whether they prefer to curl up, stretch out, or nest. Pair it with the Calming Licking Mat at bedtime to help anxious or restless dogs settle faster.

2. "My Pet Isn't Drinking Enough Water and I'm Worried About Their Health"

Dehydration in cats and dogs is more common than most owners realise — and it's a leading contributor to kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and digestive problems. Many pets simply don't drink enough from a static bowl. The solution is movement. The 1200ml Automatic Filtered Cat Water Fountain keeps water continuously circulating and filtered, which naturally encourages pets to drink significantly more. For a complete hydration setup, the 3.2L Stainless Steel Smart Auto Dispenser is a robust, hygienic option that works brilliantly for both dogs and cats.

3. "My Cat Is Bored, Destructive, and I Feel Terrible About It"

A bored cat is a destructive cat — and the guilt of coming home to shredded furniture or a visibly restless pet is real. Cats need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise, and without it they develop stress behaviours that are hard to reverse. The Automatic Interactive Cat Feather Toy keeps your cat engaged and hunting even when you're not home, while the Windmill Cat Toy with Catnip & Teeth Brushing adds another layer of stimulation. A stimulated cat is a calm, happy cat — and a much less destructive one.

4. "My Dog Eats Too Fast and I'm Scared They'll Get Bloat"

Bloat — or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus — is a life-threatening condition in dogs, and fast eating is one of its primary triggers. If your dog inhales their food in seconds, this is a worry worth taking seriously. The IQ Training Slow Feeder Dog Toy forces your dog to work for their food, dramatically slowing their eating speed while also providing mental enrichment. It's a simple, affordable change that directly reduces the risk of a potentially fatal condition.

5. "Travelling With My Pet Is Stressful for Both of Us"

Whether it's a trip to the vet, a holiday, or a long car journey, travelling with a dog or cat can be genuinely stressful — for them and for you. The right carrier makes an enormous difference. The Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier Backpack provides a secure, comfortable environment that keeps your pet calm and contained — ideal for vets, trains, and flights. For days out where your pet needs a rest, the Foldable 4-Wheel Pet Stroller with Rain Cover lets them come along for the adventure in complete comfort.

6. "I Don't Know Where to Start as a New Pet Owner"

Bringing home a new dog or cat is exciting — but the sheer volume of things you apparently need can feel paralysing. What's essential? What can wait? What's actually worth buying? Rather than piecing things together and hoping for the best, a curated bundle takes the guesswork out completely. The Happy Cat Bundle covers everything a new cat owner needs from day one, while the Out & About Bundle is perfect for new dog owners who want to hit the ground running.

7. "Grooming My Pet Is a Battle Every Single Time"

Grooming stress is real — for both the pet and the owner. Many dogs and cats develop a genuine fear of brushes and baths, which makes the whole process a weekly ordeal. The key is using tools that feel gentle and natural rather than clinical and threatening. The Silicone Pet Grooming Glove mimics the sensation of being stroked, making most pets far more receptive to grooming. For tangles and matting, the Grooming Mist Spray Dematting Comb loosens knots without pulling — turning a stressful experience into a bonding one.

8. "My Pet Gets Anxious and I Don't Know How to Calm Them Down"

Anxiety in dogs and cats manifests in many ways — pacing, excessive vocalisation, destructive behaviour, or simply an inability to settle. Before reaching for medication, there are highly effective behavioural tools worth trying. The Slow Feeder Licking Mat for Anxiety Relief uses the repetitive action of licking to trigger the release of calming hormones — it's particularly effective during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when you're about to leave the house. Pair it with the Windmill Cat Toy for cats who need a distraction outlet.

9. "I Feel Guilty That My Pet Doesn't Get Out Enough"

Life gets busy — and the guilt of not walking your dog enough or giving your cat enough outdoor time is something almost every owner carries. The solution isn't always more time; sometimes it's smarter equipment. The Foldable Pet Stroller with Rain Cover means older dogs, post-surgery pets, or cats who love the outdoors can come with you on errands, shopping trips, and walks — getting fresh air and stimulation without the physical demand. For cats who want to explore on their own terms, the Breathable Cat Travel Backpack lets them see the world safely from your back.

The Bottom Line

Every worry on this list is valid — and every single one is solvable. The right products don't just make life easier; they genuinely improve your pet's health, happiness, and wellbeing. At The Best For Pets, we stock only what we'd use ourselves. Browse our full range at thebestforpets.co.uk and give your dog or cat the life they deserve.