Pet’s Corner Q&A

My five-year-old cat, Manny, goes mad when I try and give him a worming tablet. It can become really stressful for us both. How can I get around this?

I recommend speaking with your vet as they may be able to suggest alternative methods, such as a spot-on wormer, which you could try instead.

Spot-on medications are applied directly to the back of the neck and all you would need to do is apply the drops to the skin beneath.

This soaks in to the skin, enters the bloodstream and spreads around the body.

Alternatively, you could make an appointment for Manny to see your vet nurse as they will be happy to administer the worming tablet when it is needed.

If you feel that your technique might be causing problems, this video may help: www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/other-veterinary-advice/how-to-give-your-cat-a-pill

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My one-year-old Whippet, Darcy, urinated herself in bed last night and she keeps trying to relieve herself but nothing comes out. She’s been sick once and isn’t acting her usual self. What could be wrong?

Poor Darcy! This sounds like she could be feeling very unwell and probably uncomfortable, and needs to see a vet as soon as possible.

The symptoms that you describe could include a urinary infection, bladder or kidney problems.

If possible, take a fresh, clean urine sample with you to the vet, so they can run some tests.

The sooner she receives treatment the better as they will be able to relieve some of the symptoms that are causing her to feel unwell.

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I have two Guinea pigs, Ant and Dec, who I love very much. How can I make sure they are happy and healthy without constantly requesting check-ups at the vet?

Guinea pigs are social animals and so they’ll be happy that they have another same sex or neutered best friend.

They love an outdoor run to exercise, a suitable diet and fresh water. Daily health checks are great to do.

This means checking everything from their face and eyes to their coat as well as their back end- especially important at this time of year, as flystrike can be a problem.

Check the underside of their feet for sores and if they have a long coat, they will need a daily brush to remove any knots and tangles from their fur.

But if they are short-haired guinea pigs, they can have a brush once or twice a week.

Watch your guinea pigs and learn about their behaviour and routine each day, you’ll quickly learn what’s normal for them.

For more information visit – www.pdsa.org.uk/guineapighealth

 

 

Picture: Pixabay/manfredrichter