PDSA Weekly Vet Q&A - 26 March 2024

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a Springer Spaniel, Nellie, who loves to run through long grass. I know ticks are commonly found in long grass; how do I know if Nellie has picked one up? Thanks Geoffrey 

Hi Geoffrey, you're right, ticks are commonly found in long grass, woodlands, and areas with lots of wildlife or sheep, so it is important to be mindful when heading out for dog walks. The best way to look for ticks is to check Nellie all over after each walk. Ticks are commonly found on your pet's head, ears, armpits, groin and tummy, but give Nellie a complete check over just in case. If you find a tick on Nellie, it is important to remove the tick quickly and properly with a tick removing tool for advice on how to do this safely visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/ticks-on-dogs

Dear PDSA Vet, we've just moved into a new home with our Greyhound, Joey. We have a lovely garden full of plants, but do I need to be mindful of Joey around some of them? Rosemary 

Hi Rosemary, hope you are settling well in your new home. Many beautiful common plants, such as daffodils and tulips are toxic to pets and can lead to them becoming unwell if they eat them. The bulbs often have a higher concentration of nutrients than leaves or flowers, so can be more dangerous for your pet. If Joey likes to explore with his mouth, it might be best to section off any areas in your garden with toxic plants, or use tubs and planters that are raised off the ground where he can't reach them. More information can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/poisonousplants

Dear PDSA Vet, my 6-year-old cat, Ginger has been sneezing, has weepy eyes and a snotty nose. Should I be worried? Thanks, Suhayla 

Hi Suhayla, it sounds as though Ginger could have cat flu – it has similar symptoms to human flu, like the ones you've mentioned, and sometimes they have a high temperature. You can help Ginger by keeping his nose clean to prevent build up, so he can smell his food, which will encourage him to eat. Also encourage him to drink, offering him the liquid from a tin of tuna in spring water should entice him. There is no specific cure for cat flu, but treatment can help to reduce symptoms, speed up recovery, and limit future flare-ups. It's best to get in touch with your vet so they can advise on the best treatment options for Ginger. More info on cat flu can be found: www.pdsa.org.uk/cat-flu

Dear PDSA Vet, my rabbit, Sugar, has suddenly gone off her food and doesn't seem to be eating much, is this a cause for concern? Zoe 

Hi Zoe, unlike many other species, who can cope with occasionally missing a meal, rabbits need to eat almost continually to keep their guts moving. It's extremely important to contact your Vet if Sugar is suddenly eating less or not eating at all. There are many different problems that could have caused your rabbit to stop eating, but some of the most common include dental disease, stress, and gut problems. If Sugar has stopped eating completely, she could be at risk of serious life-threatening complications such as gut stasis, a gut blockage, dehydration and liver disease. So, give your Vet a call to get Sugar checked over. Find out more: www.pdsa.org.uk/rabbits  

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.