Pet’s Corner Q&A
Is there any way I can reduce my cat’s bird-hunting?
Hunting is a natural and important behaviour for cats as it keeps their brains and bodies active.
However, there are ways you can channel your cat’s hunting instincts into play at home.
Stalking and hiding games are highly stimulating, use a tunnel, box or enclosed bed for your cat to stalk from or to hide toys and healthy treats in.
Wand toys can be used to mimic the movement of birds or mice, and soft toys can allow your cat to grip with their front paws and kick it with their hind legs to mimic the act of the catch.
Just remember to let them get the toy sometimes so they don’t get frustrated and always make sure they can’t swallow any part of the toy!
Find out more here: pdsa.org.uk/why-do-cats-hunt
What kind of bedding is best for an outdoor rabbit hutch?
The best bedding for rabbits is newspaper or wood-based cat litter pellets (avoid any containing silicon) topped with a good layer of soft straw (dust-free) for their comfort and warmth.
Your rabbits will need extra bedding straw to make their nest deep during the winter months to help keep them warm.
Spot clean daily and regularly deep clean using rabbit safe cleaning products.
A hutch is fine for sleeping in and for retreating to as a safe haven, but rabbits also need a large, secure grassy run for them to run, jump and hop.
Provide lots of fresh hay in addition to the growing grass, as rabbits need to continuously graze.
Provide fresh, clean water and toys, so they don’t get thirsty or bored, as well as places to dig, hide and explore.
Find out more here: pdsa.org.uk/rabbit-home-advice
Is it the law for pets to be microchipped?
It depends what pet you have.
It is a legal requirement for all dogs over eight weeks old to be microchipped and as of June 2024, it will become law for all cats over 20 weeks of age to also be microchipped.
It’s not a legal requirement to have any other pets microchipped but we recommend you do.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, tortoises, and other small pets are notorious escape artists, microchipping ensures any lost or stolen pets have the best chance of being reunited with their owners as quickly as possible.
Find out more here: pdsa.org.uk/microchipping-your-dog-advice
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