Common Pet Illnesses in Singapore (and How to Prevent Them)

Our furry friends don’t always share our love for Singapore’s “endless summer.” The tropical climate and bustling urban environment create daily health challenges. Knowing how these factors affect pet health in Singapore can help you prevent common illnesses.

Most Common Illnesses in Dogs in Singapore

Dogs are always ready for play, but living in Singapore’s humid climate and busy city life does throw a few curveballs at their health. They face challenges that go beyond stolen slippers and chewed-up remotes. (Sometimes, itchy skin flares up overnight.)

Spot problems early and keep your dog’s tail wagging for all the right reasons.

• Allergies
  Hot spots, fungal flare-ups, and itchy skin dominate the list of dog diseases in Singapore like unwelcome party crashers. Humidity doesn't just ruin our hair, it ruins our dogs' skin too. The sticky weather creates perfect conditions for bacteria and fungi to live their best lives at your dog's expense.

According to SPCA Singapore, the most common type of environmental allergen for dogs are house dust mites. These allergies can cause your dog to have very poor health, lack of energy, mood changes, persistent chewing and scratching.

Many pet parents love colloidal silver for skin issues, but make sure to get your vet's green light first before using.

• Tick
  These annoying bugs are way more of a headache than fleas in Singapore. Our crazy heat and humidity actually work against fleas (finally, the weather does us a favour!). Ticks are a lot larger and move slowly than fleas which makes them easier to spot. Their bites are usually not painful or itchy but they do leave red spots or bumps on the affected skin.

Ticks are generally easy to manage. Spot-ons, collars, or sprays are your best weapons against stubborn bites. Keep your home clean, vacuum, and wash beddings in hot water. Don’t be shy about getting professional help when needed.

• Digestive issues
  Mild tummy grumbles? Explosive bathroom emergencies? Gastrointestinal issues are common in dogs since they have such big appetites. This health quirk keep vets busy and pet parents on their toes. Primary causes include sudden diet changes, food sensitivities, or underlying digestive disorders.

Kefir can work wonders with its gut-friendly probiotics, but definitely run it past your vet first. Remember that some dogs are lactose intolerant too!

• Heartworm
  It comes from a nasty parasite called Dirofilaria immitis that mosquitoes spread around. These thin, spaghetti-like worms move into the heart, cardiovascular function. Puppies get hit harder than adult dogs because their immune systems are still developing.

Puppies and dogs should get checked for heartworms and stay protected with vaccines. Start at 6-8 weeks old, give boosters every 3-4 weeks, and by 16 weeks they’ll have strong adult immunity.

• Cancer
  Dogs experience similar cancer types as humans, either localized or generalized. Unlike healthy cells that die and replace in balance, cancer cells multiply rapidly, forming dysfunctional masses.

Help prevent it by keeping your pup fit, feeding quality food with antioxidants, avoiding chemicals, getting regular checkups, and timing spay/neuter properly.

Most Common Illnesses in Cats in Singapore

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, which makes spotting health problems a bit of a detective game. Singapore's humid climate and indoor lifestyles can bring about certain cat illnesses. Knowing what to watch for means you can step in early and keep your cat healthy longer.

• Feline Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
  FLUTD isn’t a single disease. It’s a term for problems that affect a cat’s bladder or urethra. Both males and females can develop it. It tends to happen in cats that are overweight, have underlying health issues or eat mainly dry food. 

Most cases can be managed with a better diet, healthy weight control and more moisture in their meals. But if your cat ever struggles to urinate, it’s a serious emergency that needs a vet’s attention right away.

• Parasite Problems
  Fleas, ticks and worms don’t just bother dogs. Cats who love to spend time outdoors or mingle with other animals can pick them up too.

Singapore's hot, humid weather makes flea and tick prevention non-negotiable for cats. The safest way to keep your little tiger parasite-free is year-round prevention through regular vet checks, parasite treatments, and a squeaky clean home.

• Cat Flu (Upper Respiratory Tract Disease)
  The feline version of the common cold, but much more persistent. It’s caused by airborne viruses that require treatment to prevent secondary infections in the nose, eyes, mouth, and lungs. Sneezing, watery eyes, and a lack of appetite are the classic signs.

Cat flu doesn’t have a permanent cure. What you can do is focus on comfort and symptom relief. Remember to gently clean away any gunk from your cat’s nose and eyes with a damp cotton pad or pet wipes. Contact your vet immediately if symptoms appear. Without treatment, cat flu can escalate as quickly as durian prices in Geylang.

Prevention Strategies for Pet Parents

We all know that sinking feeling when our furry family member isn't well. Prevention is cheaper than vet bills, especially when your pet can't tell you what hurts. Keep your furry friend healthy in Singapore's climate and enjoy more happy years together.

When to See a Vet Immediately

Even when you have an ironclad prevention plan, emergencies happen. When your pet is showing these symptoms, it’s time to dash to the vet.

• Refusing food or water for more than 24 hours
• Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
• Continuous vomiting or diarrhoea
• Straining to urinate, or not urinating at all
• Sudden weakness, collapse, or seizures

Paws for Thought 

Caring for pets in Singapore means staying alert to the unique health challenges our climate and lifestyle bring. But with prevention, early detection, and a good vet, you're buying more years of cuddles and kisses.

Browse our collection of preventive pet care products here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What illnesses are most common in dogs in Singapore? 
Tick fever, skin allergies, and heat stroke top the list due to our tropical climate.

How can I prevent tick fever in Singapore? 
Use vet-approved tick prevention treatments and check your dog regularly after walks.

Do cats in Singapore need vaccines? 
Yes, core vaccines protect against rabies, distemper, and other serious diseases.

Are Singapore's humid conditions bad for pets? 
High humidity can cause skin issues and breathing problems, but proper care keeps most pets comfortable.