PDSA Weekly Q&As

Dear PDSA, my Labrador keeps taking her bed outside to the garden... is this just a phase, or is she trying to tell me something? Thanks, Luna.
Hi Luna, Dogs do things that are a little strange and it's not always easy to tell why. With any new behaviour, it's always worth having her checked by your vet, in case there is some underlying health condition that may be worrying her. You refer to your dog as her, so if she is an unneutered female, she could be experiencing a phantom pregnancy because of hormone changes following a season, which is not uncommon. Carrying her bed outside may be her way of 'nesting' and taking her 'nest' or 'puppy' to a more comfortable location. When female dogs go through this, sometimes they will carry toys, beds, blankets anything in exchange for a puppy. Usually symptoms settle on their own, but if they get worse, do visit your vet. For more information head over to: www.pdsa.org.uk/pregnancy-in-dogs  

Dear PDSA, I'm frightened to cut my cat's claws, do you have any advice? Thanks, Albus.
Hi Albus, try not to worry, in a relaxed setting at home, many cats tolerate nail clipping if approached in the right way. Firstly, work out whether you need to clip your cat's claws at all! Many cats keep their claws in tiptop condition themselves, given suitable scratching spots, and claws are essential for climbing. However, if your cat's claws start to catch on the carpet or curl round, you may need to give them some help. Wait until they're calm, choose somewhere they feel comfortable and sit next to them, gently stroke them until they're settled. Use cat nail clippers, not scissors or human nail clippers. If possible, ask someone else to help keep them calm with gentle stroking and tasty treats as you clip each claw to make it a positive experience. If your cat becomes upset, stop and try another day when they're relaxed. If you struggle to cut your cat's claws at home, ask your vet for help. For more information please visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/clipping-cats-claws-advice  

Dear PDSA, will my Gerbil need to hibernate, and can I help him prepare for the winter? Thanks, Cornelius   
Hi Cornelius, Gerbils don't actually hibernate, but you will need to keep their enclosure indoors and maintain a comfortable room temperature, around 18-24 degrees all year round. A well-ventilated room is important, but you'll need to keep them way from cold draughts. Ensure he has a deep base to his enclosure, that is 30cm or deeper, as gerbils need to be able to burrow and create a nest where they are protected and stay at an ambient temperature. If gerbils get too cold, you will notice that they are not as active, will huddle together, may shiver, may have a decreased appetite and spend more time in their burrows.  Food is also a vital part of any animal's fuel-source, so be sure they have plenty of food to forage within their home. 

Dear PDSA, as it's getting nippier outside, I was wondering how long I should be keeping my two rabbits out? Thanks, Sirius 
Hi Sirius, your rabbits' environment has a huge impact on their health and wellbeing, your rabbits will be fine to stay outdoors if kept somewhere suitable. Your rabbit enclosure must be positioned somewhere tucked away so they're not exposed to the harsh elements. Keep them snug by insulating the outside of their home with carpet or warm blankets with tarpaulin over to keep them dry, Alternatively, there are waterproof covers available but make sure it's well ventilated.  Extra bedding is key to keeping them cosy! I recommend using a deep base layer of soft straw and make sure they have lots of feeding hay, as eating will help to keep them warm and their guts healthy. Your rabbits will need access to their run all year round, a windproof, waterproof cover will mean that they can exercise without getting wet or cold. Check water twice daily, to check it hasn't frozen.

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.