5 Mistakes New Pet Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Dr. Mia Kusuma · DelirioMelnRimDax · April 2026
Skipping the First Vet Visit
Many new owners wait until something is wrong to visit a vet. The first check-up within the first week establishes a baseline, checks for hidden issues, and starts your pet's vaccination schedule.
Feeding the Wrong Food
Human food, especially spicy Indonesian dishes, is harmful to pets. Onions, garlic (common in Indonesian cooking), chocolate, grapes, and avocado are toxic to dogs and cats.
Skipping Deworming
In Indonesia's tropical climate, internal parasites are almost inevitable without regular deworming. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed monthly; adult pets every 3 months.
No Flea & Tick Prevention
Many owners don't realize fleas and ticks are year-round threats in Indonesia. A single female flea can lay 2,000 eggs. Monthly prevention is far easier than treating an infestation.
Not Spaying or Neutering
Millions of stray animals in Indonesia result from uncontrolled breeding. Beyond population control, spay/neuter eliminates the risk of reproductive cancers and behavioral issues.