Tag Archives: cat

Summer and your pets,

Summer is finally here and as the weather warms up, we can finally look forward to some sunny days and social evenings. But we also need to consider our pets, some can find the summer heat quite uncomfortable and others have been know to take full advance of the food on offer at family BBQ’s leading to some serious consequences!

Be the first to read our latest Pet Care Blog here.

Brushing up on dental care!

Good dental hygiene starts at home, ideally from your pets first few days at home, this helps to ensure their teeth and gums stay in good condition throughout their lifetime. Our Pet Healthcare Blog offers some great advice on what a healthy mouth looks like and the conditions to watch out for.

Check your pets teeth regularly to spot early signs of a problem.

The sooner any dental problem can be identified, the sooner treatment can be started and dental pain and tooth loss can hopefully be avoided. If you pets breath is a little bit iffy, please do not hesitate to contact out friendly teams for more advice on your pets individual case.

Not yet a client, please register yourself and your pet here > https://brentfordvets.co.uk/register-your-pet/ and our friendly team will be able to discuss your pets individual case during a consultation with one of our friendly vets,

The importance of early socialisation,

The early experiences a puppy or kitten has of people and their surroundings, has a huge impact on their behaviour and personality for the rest of their lives. Whether this is your first puppy or your fifth, we strongly recommended attending puppy school to help your pup become a well behaved individual.

Our Summer News discusses what you need to consider before exposing your pet to the big wide world.

We hope you enjoy reading our latest Pet Care Blog, if you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice and support for your pet.

Arthritis and your feline friend.

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Arthritis and your feline friend.

Arthritis in cats is a surprisingly common and serious health concern, without treatment the
pain will continue to worsen, particularly as the damp, cold weather starts. Recognising signs of pain in your cat can be tricky as they are very good at hiding the signs of struggling and discomfort. But as your cats protector, you know your pet better than anyone in the world so if you think that your cat is not quite as agile as they used to be, please do not hesitate to contact our team for advice and support.

Other signs to watch out for include

Dull, matted coat – due to less self grooming.

Changes to personality – more irritable.

Not jumping up to their usual window sill / sunny spot.

Having accidents / missing the litter tray.

If you suspect your cat is struggling, do not panic, our team are available to help support you and your pet. We have a new injectable pain relief designed specifically to target the aches and pains of arthritis, meaning your cat can enjoy a comfortable, pain free life again.

All four of our West London surgeries are able to provide a treatment plan to support your pet. If you are not yet a client please register yourself and your pet here.

Already a client – please contact your local Young Vets surgery to discuss the treatment available and whether your pet is a suitable candidate.

Read a success story from Charlotte & Mandu, clients at our Chiswick surgery.

“Last year I noticed that when my 10 year old cat walked away from me, his back legs seemed stiff and he resembled a cowboy, akin to John Wayne! When Mandu climbed stairs, it was laboured and he didn’t like jumping up on to walls anymore.

My husband built some ramps around the home to help support him, the fence ramp is very popular but the stair ramp, not so much!

Last October, at Mandu’s yearly vaccination, the vet checked his hips and back legs and, after much hissing, the vet announced her suspicions – osteoarthritis. I had no idea that cats, like dogs and humans, could be inflicted with this horrible condition.

Mandu was prescribed a joint supplement, but after one month there was no change. I was recommended a new treatment, produced especially for cats to alleviate the pain of arthritis and improve mobility. Results from other patients were proving to be very promising.

In February, Mandu had his first dosage (two vials as he’s nearly 8 kilo’s) and it was amazing to see the difference, within days he became more agile and comfortable. As a result, he returns every month for his top up dose, the cost of which is supported by my pet insurance.

The impact of chronic pain will affect your cat’s quality of life, as a fellow osteoarthritis sufferer, I know. Here’s hoping a human version is produced soon!”

Why not take a short 8 question checklist, to help identify your cats quality of life, not just physically but emotionally.

The good news is that by identifying your cat’s condition, together with the help of our experienced team, we can develop a care plan to help put the spring back into your feline. Take a short feline only quiz here.

If you have concerns about your cat, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for advice and support on your pets individual needs. This pet blog is not intended to replace discussions with a veterinary surgeon and has been produced by the Young Veterinary Partnership with support from Zoetispetcare.com

Keep your pets cool this summer.

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Keep your pets cool this summer.

Keep your pets cool this summer. Our pet blog has arrived and it includes some great advice on keeping your pets cool during the summer heat. Be the first to read our blog here. Heat can be a real killer for many pets, especially golden oldies and brachycephalic breeds.

Have you considered brain training, enrichment or trick training to tire your dog out without walking them in the heat?

Grass awns, ear mites and other ear problems.

Our Summer news discusses the different causes of ear problems, a common ailment in cats, dogs and many rabbits that we see here at Young Vets. We recommend checking your pets ears at least twice a week for signs of irritation or infection. Read our latest pet blog for advice on signs to watch out for and what to do if you suspect a problem.

Tick alert!

Ticks are most active from March to October being found in woods and long grass. Our latest pet blog discusses the problems that ticks can cause and how to remove them safely from your pet. If you want to discuss tick protection for your pet please contact our friendly team for advice on the most suitable product for your pet.

Does your dog scoot?

Do you see your dog scooting their backend along the floor, or are they ferociously nibbling at the back end / tail area, this could indicate blocked anal glands. Our Summer Pet Blog explains more on anal gland irritations, a common problem in some dogs. Our team can also offer advice on how to help manage the problem and prevent it re occurring, although some pets have to visit on a regular basis for this problem.

We hope you enjoy reading our latest pet blog, if you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice on your pets individual case.

Spotting the Signs of Arthritis

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Spotting the Signs of Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic condition caused when the normal joint tissues degenerate (or wear away), leading to pain and ongoing damage.^1,2 Arthritis commonly develops in middle age, with older cats more likely to demonstrate signs of arthritis.

Arthritis in our pets is sadly very common. Around 40% of all cats will show signs of arthritis and more than 90% of cats older that 12 years have signs consistent with arthritis when looking at x-rays of their joints. If left untreated, the pain will become worse over time.

Despite how common arthritis is in cats, it is underdiagnosed. Globally, only around 13% of cats with arthritis will receive a diagnosis and therefore, treatment for their chronic pain. So why is this number so low?

The nature of the cat’s behaviour means they tend to hide signs of illness or pain. In the wild, showing signs of illness would make them vulnerable to predation from other animals and this behaviour has carried over to our pet cats. Whilst beneficial in the wild, this is not helpful in a home environment. It means that illnesses can be well advanced before we notice anything is wrong.

Another reason why arthritis in cats is not easy to spot, is due to the common misconception that slowing down or being less active is a normal change as cats get older. This is not the case. If your cat becomes less active, shows less interest in or a reluctance to play, this could be a sign that your cat is suffering from arthritis.

However, if we are aware of the behaviours (or lack thereof) associated with arthritis in cats, we can spot the signs earlier, meaning we can ensure our cats are comfortable, more mobile and have a good quality of life.

Spotting the Signs of Arthritis

What Signs Can I Look For?

It is important to note first that you know your cat best as their owner. These signs give us clues that there may be arthritis affecting one or more of your cat’s joints. Any deviation from the ‘normal’ behaviour of your cat warrants a visit to the vet for a check over. As we have already mentioned, cats are experts at hiding signs of illness and your vet will be happy to examine your cat if you are worried.

Mobility:

Your cat may be reluctant to

– Jump up or down onto or off of surfaces.
– Go up and/or down stairs
– Jump or climb into/onto their favourite bed.
– Play
– Use scratching posts (or other substrates)

Behaviour:

Your cat may be:

– Grumpy or less happy with people and other animals in the house
– More withdrawn – interacting less with others in the house
– Less active
– Sleeping in different locations eg, on the floor
– Not coming upstairs/into the house any more

If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it could indicate they have pain associated with arthritis. It is important to seek treatment from your veterinary surgeon if any of the above are noticed.

Cat Blog produced by Pet Dialog. If you have concerns about your feline friend don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team for advice on your pets individual case.

References:

Cimino Brown D et al. What can we learn from osteoarthritis pain in companion animals? Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2017;35 suppl 107(5):53-58. 2. KG MarketSense 2018 Global Veterinarian Market Research

Springtime and your garden.

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Springtime and your garden.

It’s time to get out and about and start enjoying the Spring sunshine.

Our Spring Pet Blog gives some great advice on how to keep your pet safe whilst out and about in your garden or local park. From pet poisons to parasite protection, its all included in our latest pet blog.

Is your pet a little ‘off’? Not quite themselves? Visit our FREE symptom check below for advice on your pets individual symptoms.

Introducing a new pet

Are you and your family welcoming a new pet in 2023? With the help of our vet team, we’ve put together a ‘to – do’ list including some of the important decisions to consider before your new family member comes home.

From life stage diets to vaccinations, its all included in our Spring News. Introducing a new pet can be a lot of fun and also a big responsibility, why not register yourself and your new family member before they arrive, to save yourself some time before your first visit.

Lungworm can be swallowed

as tiny larvae, and cause significant damage, breathing troubles, lethargy and in worst cases even death. All dog owners understand that protection from fleas and worms should be done regularly but do you know about Lungworm? Lungworm cases are on the rise across the UK, our Spring News explains how to protect your dog from this potentially deadly parasite.

The good news is all of our dog Healthcare Plans automatically include lungworm protection. Spread the cost of your dogs veterinary essentials across affordable monthly payments on a date that suits you. Click here to see the list of full benefits available for your pet in our Healthcare Clubs.

We hope you enjoy reading our Springtime Pet Blog, if you have a query on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our team for more advice on your pet.

We are on the socials, give us a follow – we’d love to see what your pets get up to when they’re out and about! Use the #youngvets to tag us in your Insta stories!

Dental disease, signs to watch out for in your pet.

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Dental disease, signs to watch out for in your pet.

Dental disease, signs to watch out for in your pet. Our Spring Newsletter has arrived and it takes a closer look at dental disease, the causes, treatments available and most importantly prevention.

pets teeth

Tick-borne diseases – what are they?

As the weather warms up, and Spring looks set to stay, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on those pesky parasites looking to jump onto your pets and into your home! Our Spring News explains the lifecycle of the flea and why year round prevention is so important for your pet.

flea

The benefits of grooming your pet

means you can keep an eye out for an lumps and bumps that your pet may get. Our Spring Newsletter discusses the different types of lumps and bumps and what to do if you find one on your pet.

vet cat dog ticks

Our Spring Newsletter has arrived, be the first to read it here. If you have a question on any of the articles mentioned don’t hesitate to contact our team or ask one of our friendly vets at your pets next appointment for more advice.

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

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Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Allergies, Itching and parasites. As the weather improves, have you noticed your pet becoming more itchy? If your pet is showing signs of a skin problem, have a read through our Summer Pet Blog, it looks at the possible causes of seasonal itching.

Female Cats

will start their first season from as young as four months of age, usually in the Spring or Summer months. Besides preventing unwanted pregnancies, there are many other benefits to neutering your male and female pets, read Our Summer Pet Blog here to understand the benefits of neutering your pet.

Don’t get caught out by Kennel Cough!

Our Summer Pet Blog explains how your dog can contract this highly contagious cough, the signs to watch out for and how to reduce the risk for your dog.

Also featured – Summertime at last! Summer safety tips for your cat, dog and small furries. Rabbits; Just like other pets, rabbits benefit from regular vaccinations and health checks to keep them in tip top condition.

We hope you enjoy reading our Summer News Blog, don’t forget to keep your pets cool this summer. If you have a question on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for further help and advice.

We are passionate about pets and will treat your pet with the respect they deserve. Our Brentford surgery is led by Dr Charlotte Attwood MRCVS. We have onsite parking for your convenience and a wide range of services available to help you care for your pet.

Microchips With Everything!

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Microchips With Everything!

Microchips With Everything!

Having your pet microchipped is absolutely vital! Our Spring News Blog, discussed why microchips are so vital for almost all pets. As you are hopefully aware, it is now compulsory to microchip dogs over the age of 8 weeks old. It is also vitally important to keep your pets microchip details up to date, have you changed your address recently, changed your mobile number – DON’T FORGET to update your pets microchip details.

Looking after your new pet

Thinking of going to a rescue centre to re home a pet this Spring, or contacting a breeder to view a new family member? Our Spring News has put together a check-list of things to do when your new family member arrives! From pet insurance to dental care – there’s lots to remember.

Covid – 19 and early socialisation.

Unfortunately due to Covid 19, the pandemic has made it much harder to socialise young pets. Our Spring News discusses how a good breeder or rescue centre can help start your pets socialisation process when they are young, but if you are struggling with your lockdown pet hitting their Teenage Stage then please do ask our team or seek a qualified behaviourist for advice and support.

We hope you enjoy reading our Spring News Blog – If you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned do not hesitate to discuss any concerns at your pets next appointment or telephone your local Young Vets Surgery.

Are you new to the West London area – looking for a vet to help you care for your pet? Register with our team today and visit a vet who is passionate about your pet.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

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Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Some salt mixtures on paths, and roads can build up between your pets paws, causing limping and sores. So, do check your pets feet regularly and make sure they washed, clean and dry on your return from a walk. As well as a range of common hazards our Pet Paws and Poinsettias Blog also takes a look at winter toxins and your pets, some are seasonal, but most are a year round problem.

How can you try to ensure your pet remains the right weight?

Loosing lock down pounds can be hard for both humans and pets alike. With the onset of winter, it’s very tempting for pets to snuggle up at home, go on less walks and in the process gain some extra weight. Our Winter News offers some great advice on how to monitor your pets weight from home and the problems that weight gain can cause.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas

are also known to be toxic to both cats and dogs. The festive season brings with it a range of winter hazards. Our Pet Paws and Poinsettias Blog, takes a look at some of the most common toxins and hazards around at this time of year that all pet owners should be aware of.

We hope that you enjoy reading our Winter Blog, if you have a query on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice. We have been providing a caring service for our clients and their pets across West London for over 50 years. Register your pet with our team today here and visit a vet who is passionate about your pet.

Ticks Can Transmit

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Ticks Can Transmit

Ticks Can Transmit

Lyme Disease, a serious infection to both human and canines. Our Spring Newsletter has arrived and its crammed with advice on how to keep your pet happy and healthy this Spring 2020. The warmer weather is welcomed by most, but with it brings a host of parasites. Whilst fleas can be irritating, Ticks cause a much greater danger to both pets and their humans. Our Spring News explains the life cycle, the diseases they can potentially transmit and how to protect your pet.

Kennel Cough,

is a very infectious, but rarely life-threatening, respiratory infection that spreads from dog to dog wherever they meet. Our Spring Newsletter discusses the signs of kennel cough to watch out for in your dog and how to give your dog the best protection.

keep It Social!

Rabbits, whether kept indoors or outdoors need space to exercise (with toys, tunnels and areas to dig), areas to hide, eat, sleep, stretch out and hop. Our Spring News provides some great advice on how to keep your bunny hoppy and healthy.

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Spring 2020 Newsletter, if you have any questions on the articles mentioned don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team for further advice.

Summer and your pets,

Brushing up on dental care!

The importance of early socialisation,

We hope you enjoy reading our latest Pet Care Blog, if you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice and support for your pet.

Arthritis and your feline friend.

Other signs to watch out for include

Read a success story from Charlotte & Mandu, clients at our Chiswick surgery.

Keep your pets cool this summer.

Grass awns, ear mites and other ear problems.

Tick alert!

Does your dog scoot?

We hope you enjoy reading our latest pet blog, if you have a question regarding any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for more advice on your pets individual case.

Spotting the Signs of Arthritis

What Signs Can I Look For?

Mobility:

Your cat may be reluctant to

Behaviour:

Your cat may be:

Springtime and your garden.

Introducing a new pet

Lungworm can be swallowed

We hope you enjoy reading our Springtime Pet Blog, if you have a query on any of the articles mentioned please do not hesitate to contact our team for more advice on your pet.

We are on the socials, give us a follow – we’d love to see what your pets get up to when they’re out and about! Use the #youngvets to tag us in your Insta stories!

Dental disease, signs to watch out for in your pet.

Tick-borne diseases – what are they?

The benefits of grooming your pet

Allergies, Itching and parasites.

Microchips With Everything!

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Pet Paws and Poinsettias.

Ticks Can Transmit

We hope you have enjoyed reading our Spring 2020 Newsletter, if you have any questions on the articles mentioned don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team for further advice.

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