Pet’s Corner Q&A

Does my rabbit Sally need worming treatment?

Rabbits don’t generally require regular worming treatments, as infestations aren’t particularly common.

However, if you have recently introduced a new rabbit friend that has come from a large multi-rabbit home or rescue situation then it’s a good idea to ask your vet to check them over to see if they could need worming treatment.

It’s important to regularly clean out their home and relocate the area where they graze otherwise they may be at risk of developing a worm burden.

If your bunnies have these unwanted pests – usually a simple deworming treatment is enough to combat the problem.

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My dog, Hugo, is always drinking water from the stream. A friend told me he could get ill. Is this true?

Brooks, streams, lakes and even reservoirs are at risk of contamination by parasites, bacteria or chemicals, as the water is untreated and in its natural form.

There is a chance that drinking this water could lead to an upset tummy, with diarrhoea and vomiting, or worse, they could be at risk of blue green algae poisoning if they drink from stagnant lakes or pools.

To make sure your furry friend stays hydrated during walks, make sure they have access to fresh, clean drinking water at home before you go out and take a fold-up bowl and bottle filled with fresh, clean water from home, allowing them to have a drink on the go.

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Should I clip my indoor cat’s claws?

Most cats keep their claws in shape and healthy by scratching.

Indoor cats will need ‘cat trees’ or scratching posts to allow them to enjoy and fulfil this natural behaviour.

If you do need to trim your cat’s claws, make sure they are relaxed before you do it, ask someone to hold them gently but securely, they may need to wrap your cat in a towel, while you just take off a couple of millimetres of claw length, being careful to avoid clipping into the blood vessel in the middle.

It is also important to use cat nail clippers, not scissors or human clippers. If you struggle at home, contact your vet for advice.

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Our 11-year-old cat, who is neutered, has started marking in the house. Why is he doing this?

I’d recommend getting him checked over by your vet.

If he is marking in the house, it is possible he could have a urinary problem like bladder inflammation or an infection, kidney disease or diabetes.

Pain caused by arthritis can prevent him using the tray too if he struggles to get in and out.

He may be confused; cats can develop dementia-like symptoms with age, which can be really upsetting for them.

Environmental stresses can trigger bladder inflammation and could include a change in litter tray position, a new addition to the family or neighbouring cats intimidating from outside.

Contact your vet straight away.

 

 

Picture: Pixabay / 1192864