Sleep is crucial for the health of your pet (as well as for your own sanity!), and they require a lot of it: Puppies need about 18 to 20 hours of sleep each day, while adult dogs need anywhere from 8 to 13 hours of sleep. Kittens, on the other hand, require close to 20 hours of sleep, while adult cats average around 13 to 16 hours of sleep a day.

Without sufficient sleep, your pet could become restless or stressed. Plus, a lack of sleep can lead to behavioral problems or signify health issues, like hyperthyroidism in cats.

Exercise not only burns off excess calories (and energy for puppies and kittens!), but it also helps pets sleep better and prevent behavioral problems and obesity. Plus, exercise strengthens your bond—and who doesn’t want that?

Dogs generally need anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours of activity every day, while cats should get about 30 minutes a day of exercise. Consider puzzle toys, too, which exercise pets' brains and can help slow down cognitive decline and dementia in senior pets.

Talk to your vet about your pet’s individual needs.

For puppies and kittens, it's important they receive the right preventative care, such as vaccinations to protect them from heartworm and fleas and ticks, spaying or neutering, as well as continuing to take your pet in for vet check-ups.

As your pet grows older, it’s just as important to ensure your now-adult furry family member stays active—both physically and mentally—as well as receives appropriate vet care (including annual comprehensive exams and blood tests) so they thrive in their prime years.

As for senior pets? It’s essential to ensure they receive the right nutrition, exercise and mental enrichment to stay happy and healthy for only the best quality of life.

At home, consider proper grooming and dental care, such as brushing their coat and their teeth, as well as equipping them with pet health accessories, like elevated food bowls or bolster beds, for maximum comfort. And why not pamper your pet with a spaw day, too?

As for the vet, give your pet the best veterinary care possible. One way to stay on top of veterinary services is by regularly taking your pet to your pet wellness clinic or center for pet wellness exams, during which your vet will conduct a physical exam to check their weight, teeth, heart health and more. They may even recommend adding a supplement to your dog or cat’s diet. And while you may be brushing your pet’s teeth or giving them dental treats, professional dental cleanings are also a must to prevent dental diseases in both dogs and cats.

During National Pet Wellness Month, play Pet Wellness Bingo for a chance to win pet wellness goodies, including fall toys, a toothbrush and Vibeful calming supplements!

Check out PetMD's Instagram post for more info on how to enter:

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You can also download the Pet Wellness Bingo card to your device.