Pet’s Corner Q&A

I would like to let my budgie enjoy some free flying time inside the house. What can I do to make sure he’s safe?

Allowing your budgie to fly freely around a room in your home is a great way for them to get more exercise and keep them happy.

However, it’s important to make sure the room is secure – all windows and doors should be closed to prevent escape.

You’ll need to turn off any ceiling fans, extractor fans, and paper shredders.

If you have blinds, make sure you close them properly so your bird cannot get tangled up in them, as this can be very dangerous.

Closely watch your budgie to ensure he is not nibbling at any wires or toxic substances, like essential oil candles or paint, and remove any toxic indoor plants.

To find out more about household hazards to watch out for, you can visit https://www.pdsa.org.uk/keeping-your-pet-birds-safe

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While my cat and I were staying with family, I noticed they were using essential oils. I don’t think my cat got into them but what symptoms should I look out for?

Essential oils can be harmful to our feline friends, even more so when used undiluted.

Symptoms of poisoning can include excessive dribbling, vomiting, shaking, or appearing unstable when walking.

You may also notice your puss becoming lethargic, having difficulty breathing, or even collapsing.

Check your cat’s skin – if they’ve been in direct contact with the oil it may be red and sore, which can be a sign of a chemical burn.

If you suspect your pet has ingested, or been affected by, an essential oil, contact your vet who will be able to offer advice based on which oil they’ve been exposed to and the concentration.

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My dog, Cherry, is undergoing an operation soon. What can I do to help her recover comfortably?

Like us, pets need plenty of TLC after surgery.

Cherry will appreciate bland food following surgery and the day after. Smaller meals of cooked chicken and rice, or scrambled egg can be gentle for her tummy.

Provide somewhere quiet, warm, and safe to rest at home – she’ll need to take it easy following her operation.

Restrict her walks, discourage her from being too playful, and take her out to the toilet on a lead.

Setting a reminder can help you stay on schedule with any medication she may need to take, too.

It is very important that Cherry doesn’t lick, bite, or scratch at her stitches, as this could cause the wound to open or lead to a nasty infection.

A recovery vest or cone collar can help prevent this.

For more information you can visit https://www.pdsa.org.uk/post-surgery-care