Category: SMALL

Cat microchip law: owners given deadline for when cats have to be microchipped – or face £500 fine

A new law was introduced on 13th March that makes microchipping pet cats and keeping contact details up to date compulsory for all owners. The new microchipping rules give owners until 10 June 2024 to microchip their cat, making it easier for pet cats to be returned home safely if lost or stolen.

There are currently over 9 million pet cats in England, with as many as a quarter of them (2.3 million) unchipped. The new rules mean cats must be implanted with a microchip before they reach the age of 20 weeks and their contact details stored and kept up to date in a pet microchipping database.

Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said “Cats and kittens are treasured members of the family, and it can be devastating for owners when they are lost or stolen.

“Legislating for compulsory microchipping of cats will give comfort to families by increasing the likelihood that lost or stray pets can be reunited with their owners.”

All owners must have their cat microchipped by 10 June 2024 and owners found not to have microchipped their cat will have 21 days to have one implanted or may face a fine of up to £500.

The introduction of compulsory cat microchipping was a manifesto commitment and an Action Plan for Animal Welfare pledge, following a Government call for evidence and consultation on the issue in which 99% of respondents expressed support for the measure.

Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said “I am pleased that we are progressing with our requirement for all cats to be microchipped.

“Microchipping is by far the most effective and quickest way of identifying lost pets. As we’ve seen with dog microchipping, those who are microchipped are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owner.

“By getting their cat microchipped, owners can increase the likelihood that they will be reunited with their beloved pet in the event of it going missing.”

The process of microchipping involves the insertion of a chip, generally around the size of a grain of rice, under the skin of a pet. The microchip has a unique serial number that the keeper needs to register on a database. When an animal is found, the microchip can be read with a scanner and the registered keeper identified on a database. No matter how far from home they are found, or how long they have been missing, if a cat has a microchip there is a good chance that a lost cat will be swiftly returned home and reunited with their owner.

It will not be compulsory for free living cats that live with little or no human interaction or dependency, such as farm, feral or community cats.

Owners with cats that are already microchipped should ensure their details are up to date.

The commitment to microchipping is part of a wider Government effort to build on their existing world-leading standards. Since publishing the Action Plan for Animal Welfare in 2021 the UK has brought in new laws to recognise animals sentience, introduced tougher penalties for animal cruelty offences and brought forward a ban on glue traps.

Neutering: why your bunny needs it!

There are several benefits to neutering your rabbits, both from a behavioural and a health point of view. We strongly recommend that all rabbits that are not intended for breeding should be neutered.

Neutering a female rabbit (Doe) is called ‘spaying’ and involves removing the ovaries and womb, whereas neutering a male rabbit (Buck) is called ‘castration’ and involves removing the testicles. Most female rabbits can be neutered from around five months old, but giant breeds take longer to mature, so may be as late as eight months. Male rabbits can be neutered as early as ten weeks.

Rabbits can get pregnant at around three months old, so males and females must be kept separate from this age (ideally a bit before), until after they have been neutered. Females are sterile immediately following the procedure.

Male rabbits can remain fertile for up to six weeks after they have been castrated, so must be kept separate from any un-neutered females in this time.

Reasons to have your rabbit neutered

If you neuter your rabbits, you not only prevent the risk of unwanted litters, but you also reduce the risk of some tumours in females and may reduce territorial aggression and undesired sexual behaviours in both sexes. Here are some of the main benefits:

• Pregnancy – The most obvious risk of being unneutered is pregnancy, and most rabbits can get pregnant at around three months old, even if they are related!
• Illness – By neutering your rabbits you decrease/eliminate the risk of certain cancers, for example uterine and testicular cancer. Sadly, female rabbits are very likely to develop uterine (womb) cancers relatively early in life. They can also develop womb infections, or other cancers such as mammary (breast tissue) cancer.
• Fighting – Rabbits are sociable animals so should always be kept in friendly pairs or groups – the ideal pairing is usually a neutered male and neutered female. Neutering reduces the likelihood of fighting in both male and female rabbits and also means they are less likely to show aggression towards you too.
• Urine spraying – neutered rabbits are less likely to spray urine to mark their territory.
• Better house training – neutered rabbits are much less likely to exhibit marking behaviours, making it much easier for them to live happily indoors.

What does neutering involve?

Neutering is a surgical procedure, involving a general anaesthetic. Your rabbit will come into the surgery in the morning, stay for the day to have the operation, and in most cases will be reunited with you the same day. Although all surgical procedures come with some risk, neutering is one of the most common procedures undertaken by our vets, and the techniques are very safe.

In males the testicles are removed – this is the main source of the hormone testosterone, so levels of this hormone fall after the surgery. In females the ovaries and the womb (uterus) are removed as standard – this means that your rabbit will no longer be able to fall pregnant.

Whilst all surgical procedures can be uncomfortable, recovery from neutering is usually very rapid. In most cases rabbits are on their feet within a few hours of the procedure and will be given pain-relief drugs for the procedure itself, and throughout recovery. Some rabbits may be subdued for a day or so and may appear drowsy or a little wobbly that evening, but most rabbits are back to their normal selves within a few days.

If you are booking your rabbit in to be neutered by one of our experienced vets, then you will be given full pre and post-operation care instructions.

Could you meet all the welfare needs of a rabbit?

Despite being the third most popular pet in the UK, rabbits are amongst the most misunderstood. They are curious, highly intelligent, social, and fun animals, making caring for them great fun and very rewarding. With the best care they can enjoy full and enriched lives, living as long as dogs and cats.

But rabbits have complex needs and it’s essential they have enough room to exercise, display normal rabbit behaviour and eat the right diet to stay healthy and happy.

Sadly, though too many live out their days confined to a hutch, unable to display the behaviours they would show in the wild. Often this is simply due to the lack of knowledge of new rabbit owners, with the level of advice given to in pet shops, at best, inadequate and at worst, non-existent.

How to keep happy rabbits

Happy rabbits have a lot of energy: they enjoy running around and playing. They’re also very social creatures, so spending time with their family members – human and rabbit – is essential to their well-being. Ideally, they should:

• Have a companion – rabbits are happiest when they are half of a bonded pair. If your rabbit is living alone, they could get lonely and bored. To be kept with others, rabbits must be neutered – castrated or spayed (recommend regardless).
• Have the right housing – rabbits need the space to be able to hop, stretch out fully, stand up on their hind legs and run around, so a hutch alone is not enough. Give them an environment to display their natural behaviours.
• Eat well – their digestive systems are complex and delicately balanced. Feed them unlimited good quality hay, along with fresh vegetables and quality pellets.
• Get mental and physical stimulation – rabbits benefit from a rotating collection of toys. They are also incredibly curious little things, so give them puzzles and things to investigate to help stave off boredom.
• Be neutered and vaccinated – take them to the vet for annual vaccinations, regular check-ups and if you have any concerns.

Home, Sweet Home

A rabbit’s environment has a direct impact on its health and happiness, with daily exercise vital to their mental and physical health. The big question you need to ask yourself is where will they live – indoors or outside? Both can work well providing the space they have is safe and most importantly big enough for then to display their natural energetic behaviours.

Unfortunately, many commercially produced hutches are simply not big enough for the rabbits they are housing, and lack of advice at the buying stage leaves new owners unaware. A good hutch should be:

• At least 6 ft wide x 2 ft deep x 2 ft high.
• Dry and free from mildew on the inside.
• Draught-free.
• Watertight.
• Sheltered at the front from direct sunlight or wind exposure.

As rabbits need at least several (ideally eight) hours of exercise a day a predator-proof run will need to be attached to the hutch. This should be:

• At least 4 ft wide x 8 ft long x 3 ft high.
• Made from sturdy mesh.
• Be on firm standing to prevent rabbits burrowing out or predators burrowing in.
• Provide shade and things to do.
• Have good air flow and light.

How often to clean out your rabbit will depend on how messy your rabbit is, but as a rule, we would advise cleaning out damp toilet areas every day and doing a full clean out at least once a week. Using litter trays with a wood-based cat litter under wood shavings is ideal as they are easy to empty, protect the hutch floor from the abrasive action of the urine and they train the rabbit to use the tray which increases hutch hygiene.

6 signs your rabbit is stressed or unhappy

Sometimes, it can be difficult to know what our rabbits are thinking. As prey animals, the way they behave is different to other common pets and changes to their body language can be subtle. If you know what to look for, it can help you to recognise if they are stressed or unhappy and help get them back to their usual self:

1. Loss of appetite
2. Lethargy
3. Hiding
4. Overgrooming
5. Aggression
6. Obsessive biting

A change in your rabbit’s behaviour can indicate many things e.g. living conditions, loneliness, environment or sickness, but luckily most of these things can easily be rectified with a few simple changes. It’s important to speak to your vet if you notice any unexplainable changes in your rabbits’ behaviour, so they can check if there’s any medical reasons for it.

Think carefully before you jump into buying a rabbit

Rabbits can be affectionate and quickly ingratiate themselves into your home life. Happy bunnies will hop, dance and binky their way into your hearts. But rabbits are not usually:

• Good pets for young children.
• Pleased to be picked up or petted.
• Able to live in small spaces.
• Happy living alone.
• Easy to look after.

Rabbits have complex needs and it’s important to make sure your rabbits have enough room to exercise, display normal rabbit behaviour and eat the right diet to keep healthy.

The importance of vaccines for rabbits

We all want the best for our rabbits, especially when it comes to keeping them healthy. So, it’s important to vaccinate your bunnies every year against Myxomatosis and two strains of Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD and RVHD2).

There’s a lot of information out there about vaccinations and it can sometimes be confusing. Put simply, vaccinations are needed to:

• Protect rabbits from nasty, life-threatening diseases.
• Give peace of mind.
• Create or boost their immunity to certain diseases.
• Prevent rabbits from passing on infectious diseases.

Sadly, a lot of the diseases your rabbit can catch if they aren’t vaccinated can be fatal. Even if your rabbit catches one and recovers, they could be left with long-term problems.

Myxomatosis

They can be injected from five weeks old, and they’ll need boosters every year with the new triple combination vaccine.

It doesn’t guarantee absolute protection from Myxomatosis, but the disease will be milder in vaccinated rabbits, appearing as a single skin lesion, or a short, fairly minor illness. Vaccinated rabbits with Myxomatosis usually survive, unfortunately unvaccinated rabbits tend not to.

Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD)

You’ll need to protect your rabbits against two strains of RVHD, known as RVHD1 and RVHD2. Your rabbits can be injected from five weeks old and they’ll need a booster every 12 months.

Vaccination is very effective. If your rabbit has never had a standalone RVHD2 vaccine, then it should be given as a one-off the first time you vaccinate.

Rabbit vaccination myths

Vaccinating your rabbits is the most important measure you can take to protect them. There are many misleading ideas surrounding your bunnies’ jabs. Here we debunk some common myths:

MYTH: Vaccinations can damage a rabbit’s health

Just like in humans a vaccination can make a pet feel a bit ‘off-colour’ for a day or two, but if you’re worried that your rabbit seems very unwell, check with your vet. Some rabbits can develop a mild case of Myxomatosis after vaccination, although this can usually be treated successfully by your vet. It’s worth bearing in mind that as a vaccine can take a week or two to become fully effective, there’s always a chance your rabbit was exposed to the disease before vaccination took place.

MYTH: House rabbits don’t need to be vaccinated

This is not true – Myxi is spread by fleas and mosquitoes, which fly indoors as well as outside, and RVHD can be carried inside on hay and vegetables, or even on your clothes or shoes. Rabbit diseases exist in both urban and rural areas, especially if there’s a wild rabbit population nearby.

MYTH: RVHD is not a common disease in the UK

Although less common than Myxomatosis, RVHD and RVHD2 are on the rise. These diseases cause internal or external bleeding, but the signs aren’t always obvious as your pet may just seem lethargic. If a rabbit dies without warning, and their owner doesn’t visit the vet, the reason for its death can go unknown. So, the incidences of RVHD in the UK could be a lot higher than we realise.

MYTH: Once a baby bunny is vaccinated, it’s immune to common diseases for life

Not true – rabbits can be vaccinated from five weeks old, and then need a booster every year for the rest of their lives.’ These vaccinations protect against the most common rabbit diseases: Myxomatosis (Myxi), RVHD and RVHD2.

MYTH: Myxomatosis vaccinations don’t always work

While a Myxomatosis vaccination can’t guarantee absolute protection, vaccinated rabbits with Myxi usually survive whereas the disease is likely to be fatal in unvaccinated ones.

MYTH: Rabbit vaccinations are more effective when they’re given in spring

Myxomatosis is most common in late summer and autumn, so it makes sense to vaccinate in spring or early summer for maximum immunity when the disease is at its peak. But rabbits can be vaccinated safely and effectively at any time of year. It’s also the perfect opportunity for a top-to-tail health check.

Pet Dental Health Month – Top tips for a healthy smile!

The health of your mouth can have a significant impact on your general health and wellbeing, and it’s no different for pets! Dental health is a critical part of your pet’s overall health, and just like us, dental problems can cause, or be caused by, other health problems.

Neglecting oral hygiene can cause pets to suffer from a broad range of oral problems, leading to issues like tartar build up, gum disease and even more serious health problems like heart disease, lung disease and kidney disease.

With some figures reporting over 80% of dogs suffer from some kind of gum disease while around 70% of cats are affected by dental disease by the time they are three-years-old knowing how to look after their teeth is an important part of keeping your furry friend healthy.

Signs of a problem with your pet’s teeth or mouth might include;
• Smelly breath
• Difficulty eating
• A change in behaviour
• Weight loss
• Pain or rubbing at the mouth
• Excess drooling or salivation
• Redness or bleeding around the gums

Top tips to prevent dental health issues in pets

Effective dental care is as critical for pets as it is for humans. When it comes to dental health care in pets, offense is the best defence. Being proactive and having a great care routine is essential for helping your pet keep dental disease at bay.As February is Pet Dental Health Month, we thought now is the perfect time to share our top tips for a healthy smile.

Regular and effective brushing
Cleaning your pet’s teeth is the most effective way to prevent them from developing oral health problems. Regular brushing will not only lower the risk of them developing gum disease, dental disease, and many more dental-related illnesses, but can prevent the build-up of plaque (which when hardened can only be removed by a vet).

To maintain healthy teeth and gums, we recommend that you brush your pet’s teeth 2-4 times a week. However, it is important to use the right equipment; a soft bristled brush is best, and ensure you use a special pet toothpaste (as the fluoride in human toothpaste can be toxic to pets). If in doubt, ask your vet to recommend a suitable toothpaste for your pet.

If you pet is hesitant to you brushing their teeth, try letting them lick the toothpaste off your finger initially, then work up to running your finger over their teeth, before eventually swapping to a toothbrush.

Regular brushing will also help them gain fresher breath – something that I’m sure many of you will appreciate!

Feed a healthy diet for healthy teeth!
Another similarity you share with your pet is that you both need a healthy balanced diet – not just for oral health but for the benefit of the whole body! Alongside regular brushing, to maintain healthy teeth and gums you should feed your pet a nutritious balanced diet. Here are four diet guidelines that will keep your pet smiling.

Use a dental diet – Some dry pet foods are specially designed to keep your pet’s teeth clean by scraping away plaque as they eat. Speak to your vet about the best and most reliable dental diets for your pet.

Dental chews and treats – These can be effective in reducing the build-up of plaque. Just make sure that they are formulated for this purpose by always reading the label before you buy, and as most chews and treats contain lots of calories it’s best to use them sparingly!

Cut out sugary snacks – Human treats are not meant for pets! Treat your pet but be careful not to overdo it…even if your pet is giving you the puppy dog eyes.

Beware of teeth-wrecking toys and chews – You should be wary of giving pets hard toys, raw bones or anything else they may find difficult to chew, as they can increase the risk of tooth fractures and breaks.

Visit your vet regularly
Similarly to the dentist, your vet isn’t just there for when your pet has an issue! The best cure is prevention and visiting the vet regularly will help you avoid any potential problems before they arise.

Your veterinary nurse or vet is also the best person to ask for guidance on how to maintain great oral health in your pet(s) between visits. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions because keeping on top of your pet’s oral hygiene can have positive effects overall.

Just like us, pets benefit from maintaining good oral hygiene. By staying on top of your pet’s dental needs you can help to keep them happy and healthy. In fact, it’s as important for our pets to receive dental care as it is for humans, so maintaining good oral hygiene should be as much a part of your pet’s life as it is yours.

Caring for your pet in their twilight years

Age eventually catches up with us all, including our pets, and although I am sure most of us age gracefully, sometimes problems can become apparent as our twilight years approach. These age-related problems can sometimes be ignored when owners feel their pets are just ‘getting old’ when actually, there is a lot we can do to keep our pets comfortable and happy long into retirement!

Coat changes

As animals get older they often become less adept at grooming themselves. This can be due to a lack of interest or to difficulty with reaching areas of their coat due to arthritic changes in the joints and reduced flexibility.

Our nurses can help with advice on grooming and coat care at home. Sometimes an animal’s coat can become very matted, which is very uncomfortable and can require shaving entirely (a de-matt – this sometimes requires sedation) which we can arrange, alongside guidance to help prevent the same happening again in the future.

If arthritis appears to be the problem, our vets can advise on the most effective treatment for your individual pet.

Nails

As dogs, and particularly cats, get older and less energetic, their nails do not wear down in the same way and can need a trim. Older cats in particular can get very thickened nails, which if left too long can grow into the pad causing painful infections.

All animals, but especially older cats, should have their nails checked regularly at home, and if any concerns, be booked in with a nurse or vet to have them trimmed. Did you know that nail clipping is free with a nurse on our 365 Care Plan?

Mobility

Mobility can decrease as an animal gets older, often due to arthritic changes within the joints, which can both physically change the ability to bend and straighten their joints, and also make it painful to move around. Both of these result in reduced activity levels.

You may notice your dog no longer wants to walk as far, or is unable to jump onto the sofa or into the car. Or your cat may not jump up to surfaces as they used to or choose a sleeping place that is lower down. All these can be signs of arthritis.

If you feel that your pet appears stiff and less mobile, please book in with one of our vets and we will be able to examine, assess and discuss the various treatments available.

Diet and weight

Older pets, like older people, can have marked changes to their weight. Some older animals can become greedier, and in combination with exercising less, can quickly become overweight – predisposing them to arthritis, diabetes and heart disease to name a few.

Other animals may lose weight as they get older, either due to lack of interest in their food, a reduction in their sense of smell, or an underlying health issue.

If you feel your pet’s weight is changing you can book in for a free weight check with one of our veterinary nurses. They will be able to assess your pet’s weight and body condition score, and advise you about the correct type and amount of diet to feed for your individual pet. If they have concerns about any underlying health issues, they will arrange an appointment with one of our vets for further discussion or investigation as needed.

Blood pressure

High blood pressure is common in cats in particular, just as it can be in older people. It can be something that occurs on its own or can be a symptom of an underlying disease. If left untreated it can cause various secondary serious health problems, but until these secondary problems occur there is often very little indication there is anything wrong at home.

One of our vets or nurses can check your cat’s blood pressure in a routine appointment. If you would like to book in, please contact your local branch.

Teeth

Just like people, as our pets get older their teeth may not be as strong as they used to be, and they can develop tartar, cavities, abscess or gingivitis. If needed, dental treatment can be performed at any of our surgeries to correct these problems.

If you notice signs of dental disease, which can include reluctance to eat, weight loss, smelly breath or abnormal looking teeth please book in at one of our branches.

Hearing and Sight

As our pets get older, their sight and hearing can deteriorate. Although it is often not an easy fix to correct these issues there are many things you can do at home to help your older pet manage. A member of our nursing or veterinary team would be happy to advise you about management of these issues.

Preventative healthcare

Elderly animals often have a weakened immune system, and so it is even more important to keep up with their preventative treatments, both anti parasite treatments (flea, worm and tick) and vaccinations to keep them healthy.

It is also a time in their life where they would benefit from regular examinations, so a yearly vaccination check can be invaluable in detecting abnormalities before they cause serious illness. And in geriatric animals it is can be beneficial to increase the frequency of these checks to six-monthly.

If you would like to book in for a health check, or if you would like to find out about our 365 Care Plan which includes your animals’ preventative care and twice-yearly health checks, please ring your local branch.

If you would like more detail about some of the medical conditions that can affect elderly cats in particular, read our other article on ‘senior cat care’ which focuses on illnesses found commonly in senior cats. There is more information about the first signs of these problems and also an explanation of these conditions if your pet has been diagnosed with one of them.

Senior cat care

Cats are a common addition to many families, with a quarter of households in the UK opening up their homes to these fluffy felines.

The four conditions we will talk about are common findings in elderly cats and are often identified by the vet at routine booster and health checks. However, there are also several things you can watch for at home. This early identification of problems will help keep our cats happy, healthy and content well into their golden years.

You may notice when reading through that there are similarities and overlaps in the symptoms for each of these conditions. To reach a diagnosis, the vet will need to take a thorough history, perform a clinical examination and may recommend a blood or urine test.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the cartilage and bone in the joints, which can lead to stiffness and pain. Cats are brave animals and will often hide signs of discomfort. You may start to notice that they have slowed down, they sleep more often than they used to, or, that their favourite sleeping spot has moved; for example, they now prefer the sofa, or the floor in front of the fire, rather than the top of the wardrobe.

They may start hesitating before jumping up onto your lap or the counters and not want to stretch into the graceful cleaning positions that they once used to, so their coat can appear matted and dull.

As osteoarthritis worsens, these signs become more obvious. They might limp, or not want to climb in and out of their litter tray. Although osteoarthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed with medications to provide pain relief and keep them comfortable and happy.

Our vets and nurses can also advise you about changes that can be made in the house to make life easier for your cat.

Dental Disease

Over time, bacteria and plaque builds up in the mouth, causing damage to the teeth and gums leading to pain, infection and difficulty eating. When your cat comes in for their annual health check, the vet will check their teeth, however, dental disease isn’t always obvious on examination alone. Keeping a close eye on your pet for tell tale signs can alert us to discomfort before the problem becomes severe.

A cat with dental disease may choose to eat wet food rather than the biscuits that they used to like, and you may see them dropping food as they eat. They will often produce more saliva in response to sore teeth and gums so they could start to dribble or get skin sores on their chin and neck where the saliva irritates. They could rub or paw at their mouth if they have a painful tooth.

If an infection develops, you might notice a particularly foul smell (worse than normal cat breath) or swelling on their face. Often, the only symptom that you can see is that they lose weight. If you are worried, then please bring them in for a check and the vet can advise if dental disease is evident and advise the treatment options to manage it.

Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid is a gland in the neck, which secretes hormones that control many functions in the body, such as the way the body uses energy, consumes oxygen and produces heat.

An overactive thyroid can cause your cat to be unusually hungry, but, in spite of their increased food consumption, they actually lose weight. Some owners report that their cat has a changed voice or is more vocal. Hyperthyroidism can also cause a poor coat, and suppress immunity, which can make it easier for your cat to pick up other infections.

Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed with a blood sample and there are several ways to treat or manage it. The vet will discuss the various options with you and advise which would be the best treatment for your cat.

Chronic Kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys become damaged over a period of time, and can no longer function effectively. The main role of the kidneys is to filter and purify the blood to keep important nutrients in the body and to get rid of waste products. The kidneys also play an important role in keeping your cat well hydrated by keeping (or getting rid of) extra fluid when needed. When they become damaged they lose the ability to do these vital tasks efficiently.

The signs of kidney disease include reduced appetite, weight loss and increased thirst and urination. Your cat could become more sleepy and lethargic and not groom themselves as they used to. If toxins build up in the blood stream, it can cause nausea and they may vomit.

Kidney disease is something that can be managed rather than cured. There are several different ways to manage kidney disease and this is often decided after results of blood samples, urine samples, and blood pressure measurements along with a discussion with you. The treatment plan could include a combination of nursing care, special diets, supplements and medications that can slow down the damage to the kidneys and to treat the symptoms.

If your cat is showing any of the symptoms above, or if you have any concerns, please book in for a clinical examination with one of our small animal vets so that we can help keep your cats healthy and comfortable into their senior years.

8 simple ways to save money on pet care as the cost of living rises

Having a pet to love and care for is incredibly rewarding, but the cost of your animal companion can also be expensive – especially with energy, fuel and food prices continuing to soar. As a nation of animal lovers, pet owners up and down the UK are feeling the pinch.

Are you wondering how to give your pet the best without breaking the bank? From getting crafty to shopping around, there are lots of ways you can save money on pet care. Keep reading for everything you need to know…

1. Keep them healthy with routine maintenance

It sounds simple but taking good care of your pet could save valuable money on expensive vet fees in the future. The most common health problems we see as vets are gum disease, ear infections, obesity and overgrown nails. Many of these are issues are preventable simply by getting into a habit of caring for your pet’s teeth, ears and claws and managing their weight.

Here are some very simple ways to keep your pet in good health at home:

• Regularly brushing their teeth and fur and trimming their nails to keep them in tip-top shape.
• Making sure they get plenty of exercise – this will keep you both fit and healthy and will save you money on gym membership too!
• Ensuring they are eating a well-balanced diet and have constant access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• Keeping them in a routine to minimise stress and anxiety.
• Pet-proofing your home by keeping potentially dangerous items out of paws reach, for example electrical cords, household chemicals, bins, medications and breakable décor.

2. Prioritise vet visits and preventative healthcare

Just as with humans, prevention is always better than cure in our pets – not just to save money but also to get a better outcome. While buying preventative treatments e.g. parasite protection and vaccinations might seem like an unnecessary expense at the time, it can save you money over the course of your pet’s lifetime as well as giving you the peace of mind knowing you’re looking after your pet’s wellbeing.

Preventative healthcare is something that we’re very passionate about, which is why we designed our 365 Care Plan for cats and dogs. This enables you to spread the cost of your pet’s preventive healthcare across the year with one affordable monthly direct debit. Paying off small amounts every month might be easier to manage than a large upfront payment.

It’s also very important be proactive about visiting the vet if something is wrong, as catching medical problems early will minimise overall treatment costs as well as boost your pet’s quality of life. If you suspect something is wrong with your pet, don’t ignore the signs or wait for an injury to get infected or strange symptoms to turn into an illness. This is because certain conditions can progress quickly and get expensive if not treated quickly, so early intervention is best to keep your pet happy and your bills as low as possible.

3. Shop second hand

Every pet parent loves to spoil their furry friends, but you don’t always have to buy brand new. According to research conducted by the PDSA, the average dog could cost £30,800 over its lifetime, so shopping second hand is a great way to save some extra money. Your pet won’t even notice a difference, but make sure they’re washed before you use them.

Whether it’s toys or sleeping supplies, purchasing pre-loved goods will help the environment and save you cash. You can buy many second-hand items for your dogs, but useful suggestions include crates, beds, toys and collars. Look around on Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree or even your local charity shop. Try to find high-quality second-hand items, as these will last much longer and you won’t have to worry about them breaking and spending more money on a replacement.

Be mindful of re-using children’s toys as some items like teddy bears may contain certain parts which can be dangerous to pets e.g. buttons and beads.

4. Make your own healthy dog treats

The benefits of homemade dog treats are huge. As well as reducing the cost of your weekly shop, homemade dog treats don’t contain the same amount of preservatives, fats and chemicals that store-bought treats can contain. Plus, there’s the added satisfaction that you made your pup something tasty yourself.

You can often make dog treats with ingredients you already have in the kitchen, giving you a fun baking project while saving you money. If you regularly cook and have lots of leftovers, make up batches of dog treats from your scraps and freeze them for your dog. Make sure you use things like rice and chicken and leave out anything that could be harmful to your pooch.

5. Shake up your care routine

Arranging for someone to look after your pet can be tough, especially when every penny counts. While there are plenty of pet hotels and pet sitting services for your companions if you work full time, want to go away, or travel, they can be quite expensive – with rates ranging from £10 for each visit up to £25. Asking a neighbour, friend or family member to help should be your first go-to option, if possible. Alternatively, could you change your working hours, work from home more or try to visit your dog in an extended lunch break? Even if it’s a change to only one or two days a week, every little saving can help.

Some animals can cope better than others when you go out to work. While cats can usually be left to their own devices, dogs need more attention. If you’re thinking of cutting back on your professional pet sitter then remember that they’re providing your dog with the company and mental stimulation that they need. It’s important that dogs are not left alone for a whole day at a time as it can lead to anxiety and stress.

6. Teach yourself to groom

Grooming your pet regularly is vital to ensure they stay clean, healthy and comfortable. However, for long-haired breeds or breeds that require regular grooming, this can be a huge cost for owners to keep up with. If you’re looking for a smart way to save money, why not try grooming your pet yourself at home?  Kitting yourself out with the recommended brushes, clippers and shampoos will save you a lot of money over time and it’s a great bonding experience for you and your pet – even if you can get a little bit wet in the process!

Clipping their nails, cleaning gently around their eyes and trimming their coats to remove any dead hair, dandruff and dirt are the very basics of grooming at home, but it’s important to do this in a way that makes them feel comfortable without causing any stress. It’s best to pick an area to groom with a surface where your dog can’t slip and where they can take themselves off if they’ve had enough.

7. Do your homework on pet insurance policies

Unexpected vet bills can be a source of stress and wreak havoc on household finances. A check-up with a vet can cost between £40 and £60 but treatment for injuries or illnesses can run to hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Having pet insurance involves you paying a monthly fee in exchange for a policy that covers your pet for a variety of illnesses, procedures or treatments. This investment can really pay off if your pet were to suddenly fall ill and require treatment.

But not all policies are the same, so use cost comparison websites and get advice about what companies cover, the kind of medical costs that will be included (and for how long) and make sure that you read the small print. When you’re comparing policies, check the extra benefits that are included, for instance, free video vet consultations, dental cover or pet travel insurance, to see what could add the most value for your pet.

8. Shop around for pet food

Paying for your pet’s food can be costly, but you may be able to find cheaper ways to still meet your pet’s dietary needs. Tips to try include:

• Looking for discounts and offers in shops and online – even small discounts can quickly add up over the months,
• Buying in bulk – it’s common for larger bags of pet food to be more cost-effective compared to smaller bags, resulting in more money saved over time.
• Mix a cheaper diet with your usual one to make the more expensive food last longer.
• Switching to cheaper food – some brands of pet food are identical, but you may be paying extra for the ‘brand name’.

It’s important that you feed your animal a well-balanced diet that suits their species, age and any specific health problems, so check with your vet before making big changes to your pet’s diet. If you’re switching to another brand of pet food, make sure that you introduce it to your pet’s diet slowly. Switching to a new food straight away may disagree with them and cause a stomach upset.

Pet obesity – a national epidemic

Pet obesity came to people’s attention about a decade ago, and statistics undeniably show that obesity is on the rise. It has reached epidemic status in the UK!

As veterinarians we are urging pet owners to take excessive weight gain and obesity in pets seriously. We believe obesity is a serious welfare issue in pets because it shortens their life and makes them more likely to develop disease, particularly weight-related disorders. It can cause suffering and can be extremely disabling, affecting your pet’s ability to do their normal activities, like exercise.

Health problems caused by pet obesity

Pet obesity can cause serious health problems, and make existing problems worse, which can reduce the length and quality of your pet’s life. It puts them at greater risk of conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Respiratory issues (breathing problems)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Cancers
• Osteoarthritis and a faster degeneration of affected joints
• Urinary bladder stones

On the other hand, obesity may be an indicator of disease, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) or Cushing’s disease (overactive adrenal glands).

Is your pet at risk of obesity?

Several factors can make obesity more likely in your pet. For example, in dogs:

• Breed – certain breeds have a higher risk.
• Age – the risk increases with age.
• Neuter status – neutered animals are more likely to gain weight if their diet is not managed carefully.
• Sex – apart from older dogs, obesity is reported to be more common in females.
• Obese owner – may lead to having an obese dog as it may be exercised less, or less able to recognise obesity.

Other animals have similar risk factors for obesity.

Does your pet need to lose weight?

Obesity is when your pet has too much body fat and it has a negative impact on their health, welfare and quality of life. Extra body weight and extra body fat tend to go hand in hand, so most overweight dogs will have excess body fat.

Body weight is easy to measure when assessing if your pet is overweight or obese – easier than trying to measure body fat. Using body weight as a guide, pets are considered to be overweight when they weigh 10-20% above their ideal body weight. They are considered obese when they weigh 20% or more above their ideal body weight.

It can be difficult to recognise if your pet is overweight, particularly if it happens slowly or if they have always been overweight. As a pet owner it’s important to understand that weight gained slowly is just as deadly as weight gained rapidly! By recognising weight gain early, your chances of preventing weight-related diseases and severe obesity are greatly improved.

Of course, the best way to check is to take them to the vet and get them properly weighed. However, there are some home methods you can try first, to judge if a trip to the vet is necessary.

Here are some signs to look out for in both cats and dogs:

• Ribs – Overweight pets have a layer of fat covering their ribs, which makes them difficult to see or even feel.
• Spine – A ‘fat pad’ will cover their back.
• Tummy – Your pet’s tummy will bulge out and sag downwards, which may wobble or sway when they move
• Face, legs and neck – Obese cats and dogs can get fat pads in these areas.

If your pet doesn’t pass these checks, or if you’re in any doubt, consult your vet. They’ll be able to give your dog a health check and will recommend a weight reduction programme if they think it’s necessary.

In contrast, underweight cats and dogs will have highly visible ribs, hipbones, and backbone. There will be a complete absence of fat around these areas, with an exaggerated waistline and non-existent tummy.

Tips for weight loss and preventing pet obesity

Once you have identified that your dog is overweight or obese, it is important to act to help them to lose weight.

The best approach to weight loss is one that promotes fat loss while preserving lean muscle mass. When pets properly lose fat and gain muscle, pet owners often report an increase in activity levels, enthusiasm and playfulness.

Here are our tips on how you can help your pet in the quest to attain a healthy weight in five easy steps:

1. Food and portion control
Use a specific nutritional product designed for healthy and safe weight loss i.e. one that has lower overall calorie density yet maintains an appropriate nutrient balance. And make sure that you are feeding them the right amount…

Every complete pet food in the UK must have feeding guidelines, but these are based on an assumed activity level, typically above the level of exercise the average cat or dog gets. Plus pets need different amounts of food during their life stage and different breed sizes have different needs, so you need to adjust the recommended feeding amount for your specific pet. When changing their food, portion or feeding pattern, closely monitoring any weight changes over the first few weeks and adjust feeding accordingly.

2.Exercise
There are so many benefits of regular exercise for your pets. Not only will exercise help your pet shed extra pounds, but it will also strengthen respiratory and circulation systems, and aid digestion. The key is to get your pet moving each day, ideally for a minimum of 30 mins (if your pet is able). For some pets e.g. brachycephalic (short nosed) breeds or older pets you will need to tailored exercise to what they are capable of and build up to longer walks slowly. Using an activity tracker can help you to know exactly how much you are both doing!

Cats don’t tend to go on long walks the same way dogs will, making increasing exercise a bit trickier. Try playing interactive games with your cat, with a feather or toy mouse for instance, and feed them on elevated surfaces and in different locations around your home. Keeping these play sessions regular can help to bond with your kitty, whilst keeping them entertained and trim. You could also consider remote-controlled toys and self-directed interactive toys that use technology to engage your pet’s play drive.

3.Treats
Snacks and treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Many pet owners feed the proper amount of food but sabotage their efforts by adding one or two snacks throughout the day. As few as 30 extra calories per day means your pet could gain over three pounds in a year. Fresh or frozen green beans, broccoli, and cauliflower all make excellent snacks if approved by your vet. Whatever treats you give, be sure to count those additional calories.

When it comes down to it, most dogs would prefer extra attention to more treats. Spending more time with your pooch will give you both more satisfaction than a treat which is inhaled in an instant and quickly forgotten. But if you do want to reward good behaviour with a treat then break it into smaller pieces and offer them whenever your pet earns it. After all dogs don’t do division!

4. Regular weigh-ins
Monthly weigh-ins are an important component of successful weight loss, and it keeps everyone accountable. It is important to verify weight loss, to ensure that weight loss is neither too rapid nor excessive, and to determine when enough weight has been lost.

5. Look for diseases and get them treated
Although most of the weight gain in cats and dogs is caused by over-feeding and not enough exercise, there are some medical conditions that can contribute to obesity in pets. Fortunately, most of these diseases and illnesses can be treated by a vet, so it’s important to keep an eye on your pet for any changes.

An unexplained increase or decrease in appetite or weight could be a sign of something more sinister. So, be sure to get them checked out by your vet to be on the safe side.

Whatever your weight loss approach, keep in mind the goal is to improve health and prolong life, not just skinny pets. Weight loss done correctly can improve quality of life and extend longevity in pets.

What happens when you reach your weight loss goal?

Weight loss isn’t a single battle; it’s a lifelong war. Once an ideal body weight and condition has been achieved, it is important to maintain that weight. Yo-yo weight loss and gain is no healthier for pets than for humans. The goal is to change your lifestyle so that an active, healthy lifestyle becomes normal.

Follow-up care with your vet is essential for sustained success. Your vet team can help you find an appropriate food and portion for weight maintenance. We recommend tracking your pet’s weight every one to three months to make sure they stay inside the healthy range.