PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 19 March 2024

Dear PDSA Vet, I'm a new hamster owner, and still learning all about proper hamster care! Am I meant to wash my hamster, such as give him a little bath like you would do for a dog? Chloe 

Hi Chloe, hamsters are pretty good at keeping themselves clean so shouldn't ever need you to wash them. Water can actually remove the protective oils from your hamster's fur, so it would do more harm than good for your little fur friend. Washing them in water could also lead them to potentially catching a chill, and for such a small animal, can be very dangerous and potentially fatal. A sand bath can be great for a hamster's wellbeing and it can help in keeping their fur clean.  

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a Bichon Frise, Maggie with white fur, but around her eyes she has a browny-coloured stain on her fur, is this something to worry about? Thanks, Peter 

Hi Peter, it sounds as though Maggie has tear staining around her eyes. It's a very common problem, especially in white coated breeds, like your Bichon Frise. Although it is usually harmless, it is best to have it checked over by your vet to make sure it is normal for Maggie. The easiest way to keep on top of tear stains is to keep hair around your dog's eyes and nose trimmed short. Also be sure to gently remove any dirt, tears or crust that has built up throughout the day. Make sure Maggie is happy and as comfortable as possible and you can use cotton wool pads soaked in plain warm water to remove any daily dirt. Head to: www.pdsa.org.uk/tearstainingindogs to find out more. 

Dear PDSA Vet, my Labrador Buddy has recently been diagnosed with arthritis, what are the treatment options available for my old boy? Javinder 

Hi Javinder, there are several treatment options available for arthritis, but it would be best to discuss Buddy's individual options with your vet. Possible treatment options include pain relief, such as anti-inflammatory drugs that can help to reduce swelling and pain. Joint supplements aren't a replacement for medications, and don't work for all dogs, but can be used at the same time as most other medicines. Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy can both be useful to support your arthritic dog. Hydrotherapy can be helpful as it is a form of exercise that doesn't put too much strain on joints. For more information about arthritis, head to: www.pdsa.org.uk/arthritis-in-dogs  

Dear PDSA Vet, with Easter around the corner we have lots of chocolates in the house. Our cat, Leo is so interested in all of the chocolates, it's hard to keep him off of the kitchen counters and away from them. Any suggestions? Thanks, Portia 

Hi Portia, cats are generally curious so will be intrigued by 'new' things in their home. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is perfectly safe for humans, but toxic for dogs, cats and rabbits. The most severe cases of chocolate poisoning in pets can lead to heart failure, coma and even death. Although this is rare this is why it's really important to keep chocolate safely away from prying paws. Especially during festivities like Easter when there's likely more chocolate than usual in the house. The best solution is to keep chocolate stored away in a secure container, or cupboard that your cat Leo can't get access to. More info about chocolate poisoning can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/chocolate-poisoning  

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk  

PDSA is the UK's largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.