Can Cats and Dogs Eat A Vegan Diet? Vet Sarah Aldridge Has This Advice
Each January, the Veganuary campaign inspires people across the UK to embrace plant-based eating for the month, often driven by ethical beliefs or health considerations. You might be wondering if your pet can join you on this initiative. To help pet owners in Northamptonshire understand what diet is safe for their pets this January, our team have put together the following advice.
Get tailored nutritional advice for your pet by contacting us to book an appointment with our experienced registered veterinary nurses at Daventry Vets.
Book a pet nutrition nurse appointment
Choosing the right diet for your pet
Daventry Vets’ veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses are highly trained when it comes to providing guidance on proper pet nutrition and care. While humans can choose dietary preferences, it’s crucial to prioritise the wellbeing and health of our pets by providing them with diets that meet their nutritional and health requirements.
The protein in your pet’s diet provides them with amino acids, and these are essentially the building blocks of your pet’s body. Our team at Daventry Vets can advise you on the protein sources and levels your pet needs, as well as all other aspects of pet nutrition. Each type of pet will need a slightly different diet based on their size, exercise levels, age and health condition. So, consulting with our team at Daventry Vets is the best way to ensure your pet is receiving the right balance of nutrition for their individual needs.
Can dogs eat a vegan diet?
Advice for dog owners in Northamptonshire is that a dog’s diet must provide the right balance of essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and fats. Unlike their ancestors, today’s dogs are omnivores, able to gain nutrients from both animal and plant sources. It’s important to be aware that insufficient nutrition may lead to health conditions impacting your dog’s heart, skin, coat, and immune system. While animal proteins provide high-quality ‘complete’ proteins with optimal amino acid ratios, plant proteins can be more complex. They often contain compounds like tannins, which can bind to the protein and make it harder for your dog to absorb.
That said, it’s all about getting the right balance for your dog’s individual needs. If you’re considering trying a diet that’s very different, such as a plant-based diet, your vet at Daventry Vets will work with you to ensure your dog’s new diet contains everything they need for optimum health.
Can cats eat a vegan diet?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are specifically adapted to thrive on a diet rich in animal-based protein – quite the opposite of the Veganuary challenge. They require nutrients found only in animal tissue, and insufficient intake of these nutrients can lead to serious health issues.
Sarah explains that cats need 11 essential amino acids in their diet, which they cannot produce on their own. These amino acids – lysine, arginine, phenylalanine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, methionine, taurine, valine, tryptophan, and threonine – are crucial for various aspects of health, including vision, heart function, muscle growth, and hormone balance. Without adequate amounts of these nutrients, cats are at risk of health conditions like vision impairment, heart disease, hormonal imbalances, and overall malnutrition.
Due to this, Sarah highly recommends that cats should not eat a vegan diet, to avoid putting their health at risk.
To learn more about your pet’s individual nutritional needs, contact us to book an appointment with our experienced veterinary nurses in Daventry.
Talk to our nurses about pet nutrition
Winter Dog Clothes – Yes or No?
As the temperature drops and we pull on our own jumpers and coats, many pet owners in Northamptonshire wonder whether their furry companions should do the same. But is dressing up pets in winter clothing a necessary precaution or is it more about fashion than function? As a veterinary practice, we often get asked this question, so let’s look at both the pluses and minuses.
If your pet is struggling more than usual in the cold and you are concerned, book a winter health check with our vets in Daventry.
Book a winter pet health check
Things to consider.
1. Protection Against the Cold: Some pets are more susceptible to the cold than others, particularly short-haired breeds, smaller dogs, and senior pets. These animals often struggle to maintain their body heat in colder weather, making a warm coat or jumper beneficial for comfort and health. A well-fitted coat can help keep dogs warm during winter walks in Northamptonshire.
2. Health Issues and Recovery: Dogs with certain health conditions, like arthritis, can benefit from additional warmth during winter. Our team at Daventry Vets share that a snug jumper can alleviate some discomfort by helping maintain body temperature and reducing stiffness. Similarly, dogs recovering from surgery or with a low body weight might also benefit from extra warmth provided by a coat.
3. Outdoor Activities: If your dog is active outdoors, a waterproof jacket can protect against rain and snow, preventing their fur from getting wet and making them cold. Or if your dogs are like our vet Sarah’s then they will be in water whatever the weather so there is no point in a coat on the walk and it’s better to dry them and put a coat on afterwards.
4. Not All Pets Need Them: Most dogs with thick, double-layered coats (like Huskies or German Shepherds), are naturally equipped to handle colder weather. These breeds can easily overheat if dressed in additional layers, making clothing uncomfortable and unnecessary.
5. Restricted Movement and Discomfort: If the clothing isn’t well-fitted or appropriate for your pet’s body shape, it can restrict their movement with potential for injury or skin irritation. Our vets in Daventry share that some dogs may also feel anxious or distressed when wearing clothing, leading to a negative experience, so it’s always best to start putting the coat on for short periods and using treats or play to make it a positive experience.
6. Behavioural and Safety Concerns: Dogs especially puppiess may try to chew or remove clothing, risking injury or ingestion of fabric. So they may need to be supervised.
7. Body Language and Social Signals: Clothing can obscure a pet’s body language, making it harder for other animals to interpret their signals. This could lead to misunderstandings or conflicts with other dogs.
So, what’s the verdict? As vets, we believe the decision to use winter clothes on dogs should depend on their individual needs and put their wellbeing and happiness first.
With dogs, consider their breed/coat type and if they need extra layers, their age and health, and if a coat will help them in bad weather. Daventry Vets’ team also advise observing your dog’s reaction to clothing and if they show signs of distress, it’s best to avoid it. Ensure your dog is supervised when wearing clothes to avoid injury and when choosing a dog coat or jumper, ultimately, it should prioritise function over fashion.
Have more questions? Get in touch with our vet practice in Daventry – we’re happy to help you make the best choices for your pet this winter!
If you want to share your thoughts on pets wearing clothes in winter, why not pop over and leave a comment on our Facebook page?
Book a winter pet health check
Dark Night Safety For Cats Starts At Home
Cat safety is on every vet’s mind in Northamptonshire as the nights start to get darker much earlier. Sadly, this time of year often sees a rise in the number of cats brought to Daventry Veterinary Clinic and other veterinary practices after being involved in road traffic accidents at night.
If your cat doesn’t return after a night of wandering, contact our team in Daventry by calling 01327 877767. Our veterinary nurses will check if a cat matching the description has been brought in.
Our team at Daventry Vets want cat owners to know that dark night safety for cats starts at home. To help you, our team have put together a checklist of things you can do to help your cat stay safe during autumn and winter nights in Northamptonshire, including:
- Ways to encourage your cat to stay indoors at night
- Making your cat more visible to drivers
- A cat microchipping reminder…
Download our Dark Night Cat Safety Checklist
Why do cats wander at night?
We asked our vets in Daventry to explain why cats like to wander at night, here is what they said: “Cats are naturally crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk. Their heightened senses and excellent night vision make them feel comfortable exploring in low light. Instinctively, night-time roaming is linked to their hunting behaviour, as this is when prey is typically active. Additionally, the quiet and calm of night can make it more appealing for cats to patrol their territory, search for food, or simply satisfy their curiosity.”
Should you stop your cat from going out at night?
Our vets share that forcing your cat to stay in at night can cause stress and anxiety, as it disrupts their natural instincts to explore and hunt during their most active hours. That said, when temperatures are exceptionally low or the weather is deemed a “risk to life” in Northamptonshire, it can be prudent to encourage them to stay indoors.
But what can you do to help them stay safe?
- Download our handy checklist with tips for cat safety at night
- Microchip your cat as a priority
Why is cat microchipping important?
At Daventry Vets, we know that cat microchipping gives your cat the best chance of being reunited with you quickly, should they have an accident or get lost at night – plus, it’s now a legal requirement if you live in England. Contact us now to get your cat microchipped or check the details on their existing chip.
Already microchipped your cat? Great! However, too many pet owners forget to update the information on the microchip database when they move house or change their phone number, making it just as hard for vets to contact them, as when there was no microchip at all. Do you need to update your details?
Not being able to locate the owner of a cat that has been found wandering or needs urgent medical attention, is something we absolutely dread at Daventry Vets.
If your cat needs microchipping, or they are missing, get in touch as soon as possible.
Before you go, here’s a little reminder to download our handy Cat Safety Checklist.
Cat Adoption Month: Common Rescue Cat Concerns
Did you know that November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month and November 13th is World Kindness Day? At Daventry Veterinary Clinic, we believe adopting a rescue cat of any age is one of the kindest things a person can do! We also understand that some rescue cats can be challenging and may take a while to settle in. Hopefully that’s not the case, but if it is, there are steps you can take to ease the path.
Our cat-loving vets in Daventry have put together some advice for anyone finding themselves in a challenging situation with their rescue cat, or those of you who are considering cat adoption. Keep reading and get in touch if you’d like more tailored advice, or to register your new feline friend.
Why some rescue cats display difficult behaviour
Sometimes rescue animals may exhibit behavioural problems as a result of experiences they’ve had in their previous home and the rehoming centre may not have had access to this information.
Common problems and possible solutions
There are a few issues that commonly crop up in rescue cats, so our vets in Daventry have some solutions to help you:
1. Scratching: Scratching is a natural marking behaviour for cats, but it can be frustrating when they target furniture. A simple fix is providing a scratching post and encouraging its use with a bit of catnip. Make sure it’s tall enough as cats like to stretch out when scratching. Another soloution especially if they are scratching the carpet is to fix some carpet to a piece of board ands secure this to a door
2. Going outside the litter tray: Daventry Vets’ team suggest trying a different location for the litter tray. If that doesn’t help, your cat may prefer a different size or shape, so consider switching trays and trying a different type of litter. Avoid fragranced litter tray liners as cat’s do not like these.
3. Aggression: Past experiences may play a role. If your cat hurts you during play, move away. Some cats do not like to be handled much. Remember, building a bond with your rescue cat takes time, so patience is key.
4. Being overweight: If your cat is overweight, it could be due to a sedentary lifestyle, previous over feeding, or a reluctance to play or go outside. It’s advisable to have them checked for any underlying health issues by our vets in Daventry and get tailored weight-loss advice from our experienced nursing team.
5. Health issues: While some health issues are common in all cats, your new pet may face specific challenges if they haven’t lived in a healthy environment before adoption. Cats from poor conditions can be more prone to respiratory infections, parasites, dental issues, and nutritional deficiencies. Daventry Vets’ team advise watching for signs like a large or small appetite, lethargy, odd grooming habits, or unusual behaviour. Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for early identification of health concerns and keeping your cat happy and healthy – book now.
Why adopt a senior cat
Adopting a senior cat brings mutual benefits: for the cat, it means a loving home in their golden years; for the owner, it offers a calm, mature companion with an established personality, often requiring less training and settling in quickly. Common health issues in senior cats to know about include arthritis, dental disease, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and obesity. Reputable cat rescue centres will have had a health check done prior to adoption, and some may even help with the cost of long-term medications if a condition has been diagnosed. With appropriate veterinary care, many older cats can enjoy happy and fulfilling senior years.
In the end, adopting a rescue cat of any age requires love, patience, perseverance, and the support of a great veterinary practice by your side. Contact Daventry Vets now to book your rescue cat in with one of our vets in Daventry for tailored advice.
Time-Crunched? Easy Ways to Enrich Your Dog’s Life
As a busy pet parent, you’ll know how challenging it can be to balance your hectic schedule with your dog’s enrichment needs. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many pet owners in Northamptonshire face similar struggles. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips to help you make the most of your time with your dog and keep them engaged and happy.
We’re here to help with more advice and tailored recommendations. Just get in touch with our friendly team at Daventry Vets.
Practical enrichment tips for dogs
Here are Daventry Vets’ tips to help you juggle dog enrichment with your busy schedule:
1. Revamp dog walks
When you’ve only got time for one walk, or maybe a few short walks in the day, you can always make them more engaging. Try varying the route, adding in agility (to move quickly, easily, and nimbly) and mobility (to practice range of motion in their joints) moves like weaves around posts and step-ups on curbs or other objects in your environment. You can also practice dog training and play hide & seek with a toy or treats on route!
2. Mealtime hidden gems
Mealtimes are an untapped gem that many pet owners overlook. Your pet will likely be very attentive and eager to please, so our vets in Daventry recommend:
- Before putting their food down, refresh your dog’s training using some of their daily kibble allowance as rewards. Practice “sit”, “stay”, “down”, “touch” and “paw”.
- Swap their regular bowl for a puzzle feeder – check these examples out on Amazon. This will engage their brain more and slow their eating down, which is great for digestion.
- Scatter feed or play hide & seek with some of your dog’s meal to slow things down and engage them more.
3. Playtime wins!
The beauty of the below dog enrichment activities is that you can give them as little or as much time as you have available by refilling, re-setting, and re-doing things. Our vets in Daventry recommend trying:
- Puzzle Toys: Boredom busting toys like soft hide & seek toys and other interactive puzzles are great as you can set these up and then take some time to relax (or tidy up if you absolutely have to) whilst watching your dog have fun.
- Circuits: Set up a circuits course in your garden or indoors using everyday objects. Stations could involve going around, under, through, or over something, weaving in and out, ‘switcharoo’ (hide treats under cups and switch them around), and fetching. If you can’t leave it set up, write down the activities and items you need for quick setup next time.
4. #EndofDayRelaxationGoals
Even busy people need time to unwind and relax. If you can carve out 15-30 minutes at the end of the day, our dog-loving team at Daventry Vets suggest joining up with your dog. Whether your idea of relaxing involves a yoga mat, TV time, or listening to music or a podcast, try combining it with gently brushing, stroking, and massaging your dog – it’s a great way to reduce your stress and they’ll love it too!
We hope you found Daventry Vets’ dog enrichment tips helpful and are ready to try them out with your canine companion. Let us know how you get on – share your experiences and videos on our Facebook page!
Remember to,
- Cool your dog down after vigorous exercise with a short stroll.
- Listen to your dog – if they seem tired or uncomfortable, stop.
- Talk to our vets about exercise first if your dog is young, old, or has health issues.
- Have fun together!
For tailored recommendations and more advice, get in touch with our friendly team.
Toy Time for Your Tabby: Daventry Vets’ Guide to Cat Toys
Choosing the right toy for your feline friend can be a bit of a cat-and-mouse game. But fear not, Daventry Vets’ nurses are here to help you find the purrfect plaything to keep your kitty entertained and happy.
If you’d like any additional advice about caring for your cat, our veterinary nurses in Daventry would be happy to help. Contact us to book a nurse appointment with our friendly team.
How to choose your cat’s next toy
Our cat-loving veterinary nurses recommend considering the following factors when choosing cat toys:
1. Your cat’s personality
- Energetic and Playful: Look for toys that encourage active play, like chasing, pouncing, and batting. Consider interactive toys with moving parts or toys with catnip.
- Calm and Relaxed: Opt for toys that promote relaxation, such as plush toys or toys with soft textures.
- Curious and Inquisitive: Try toys that stimulate your cat’s senses, like puzzle feeders or toys with different textures and sounds.
- A cat nip lover: There are lots of toys containing catnip and some are refillable.
For more ideas, our friendly team would be happy to share their cat toy experiences with you – just pop into our vet practice in Daventry for a chat.
2. Your cat’s age
- Kittens love toys that are small, lightweight, and easy to manipulate. Consider toys with bells or crinkly sounds. It’s tempting to play with your kitten by tapping your fingers or getting them to follow your hand, unfortunately this teaches them that hands are toys to be scratched and bitten.
- Adult cats may enjoy a variety of toys, depending on their personality. Experiment with different types of toys to see what your cat likes best.
- Older cats may prefer toys that are gentle on their joints and easy to play with. Consider toys that are low to the ground or have soft textures.
Recently got a new kitten or cat? Register them now with Daventry Vets and get top-notch care.
Different types of cat toys
- Interactive cat toys require your cat to engage their mind and body, such as puzzle feeders, teaser wands, and motorised toys.
- Soft, cuddly cat toys can provide comfort and companionship for your cat. They can also encourage your cat to use their natural hunting behaviours.
- Balls can also be a great way to encourage active play and hunting instincts.
- Laser pointers can provide endless entertainment for your cat but be sure to avoid shining the laser directly into their eyes.
- Budget toys: Sometimes a scrunched up ball of paper can be the best toy!
Tips for cat toy rotation:
- To keep your cat interested, rotate their toys each week.
- Hide toys around the house to encourage your cat to hunt and explore.
See if a local animal rescue centre near Daventry will take toy donations? As they say, “one cat’s rubbish is another cat’s treasure!”
We hope you enjoyed our article and feel ready to explore the wide range of cat toys available. For more advice on cat toys and cat care, Daventry Vets’ nurses are here for you.
Book a nurse appointment today
Pet Obesity Watch: Problems, Causes, Prevention and Reversal
With Pet Obesity Awareness Day in October, our nursing team at Daventry Veterinary Clinic are sharing some alarming statistics on pet obesity. We want to raise awareness of this growing concern and help owners in and around Northamptonshire learn how to improve the health and wellbeing of their pets, so please do share this article.
Book a pet weight consultation now
Headline stats:
Here are the stats from the The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) big weigh in campaign:
- 1,262 pets (76% dogs, 24% cats) were weighed in The PDSA’s Big Weigh In 2024 campaign – 45% were overweight or obese, which was 46% of dogs and 43% of cats.
- The 2024 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report showed that 49% of UK vets have seen an increase in pet obesity in recent years.
- 25% of vets ranked obesity among the top five welfare concerns for dogs alone.
- 82% of pet owners said they were unaware of their pet’s body condition score, a helpful tool which calculates whether pets are underweight, an ideal weight, or overweight.
- In the 2023 PAW Report, vets estimated that on average, 32% of pet rabbits were overweight or obese.
This might all sound shocking, but Daventry Vets are here to help. Keep reading for more information or book a pet weight appointment with our nurses now.
Pet Obesity Watch: Problems, Causes, Prevention & Reversal
Problems: The impact of pet obesity on quality of life
Our nurses in Daventry want to emphasise the significant impact of pet obesity on quality of life:
- Excess weight in dogs and cats can lead to reduced mobility, joint pain, and increased health risks like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and some types of cancer.
- Obesity in rabbits increases the risk of heart disease, arthritis, liver disease, flystrike in rabbits, and skin problems such as urine scald and infections.
- Pet obesity can negatively affect mental wellbeing, potentially causing lethargy, anxiety, or depression.
- Obesity can also make pets more susceptible to heatstroke.
- Obesity reduces lifespan
- Fat produces chemicals that cause inflammation.
Causes: What to be aware of
1. Overfeeding: Many pet owners overfeed their pets, especially when it comes to treats, leading to excess weight gain.
Daventry Vets’ nursing team found that according to the 2023 PAW Report, most rabbit owners gave treats for variety (52%), pet happiness (45%), personal enjoyment (29%), or part of their daily diet (24%). Owners also used them for entertainment when they weren’t home (15%) or to distract them (11%).
In the 2022 PAW Report, 60% of owners said they regularly gave their pet human food in some form i.e. leftovers (26%), cheese (22%) and bread or toast (10%). Daventry Vets’ nurses want owners to know that human food can be high in fats and sugar and can contribute to weight problems and pet obesity.
2. Lack of Exercise Sedentary lifestyles can contribute to pet obesity too. The 2021 PAW report found that:
- 38% of dog owners walked their dog just once a day.
- 5% of dogs were walked up to 4 times a week, 4% every other day.
- 29% of dogs were only getting up to 30 minutes of exercise when they were walked.
- 6% of dogs were walked for less than 10 minutes.
- 1% of dogs were never walked at all.
3. Medical Conditions Some underlying medical conditions can cause weight gain in pets.
Prevention: How to prevent your pet from becoming obese
Our vets nurses in Daventry want owners to know that incorporating the below methods into your pet care routine can help to prevent your pet from becoming obese:
- Portion Control: Feed your pet the recommended amount of food based on their age, weight, and activity level. Weigh out their food so you can control their intake and adjust where needed.
- Regular Exercise: Ensure your pet gets plenty of daily exercise. This can include dog walks in Northamptonshire, playtime, and interactive toys.
- Healthy Diet: Choose a high-quality complete pet food that is formulated to meet your pet’s nutritional needs. Avoid feeding your pet excessive treats or human food.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups at Daventry Vets to monitor your pet’s weight and identify any underlying health issues.
- Know your pets body condition score: book a pet weight appointment and our nurses will explain how do do this.
Reversal: What to do if your pet is overweight or obese
Daventry Vets’ veterinary nurses are the best people to talk to about pet weight problems. They can help you with:
- Using body condition scoring as well as weighing scales to determine how much weight your pet needs to lose.
- Gradual weight loss plans that are designed to be both safe and effective.
- Nutritional advice and recommendations for appropriate foods and portion sizes.
- Suggestions for suitable exercise activities based on your pet’s age and health condition.
- Weigh-ins and ongoing encouragement, along with any necessary tweaks to your pet’s weight loss plan.
- Referral to one of our vets if your pet is classed as obese so they can be examined for any related health conditions.
By helping your pet lose excess fat and then maintain a healthy weight, you can improve their overall wellbeing and give them the best chance of enjoying a long and fulfilling life.
So, don’t delay, book a pet weight appointment with one of our highly experienced nurses at Daventry Vets for your pet’s first weigh-in and consultation.
Book a pet weight consultation now
Daventry Vet Nurses on the Benefits of a Catio
Many cat owners in and around Daventry will know how much their cats love being outdoors and lounging in sunbeams. However, not all outdoor jollies are safe for our feline friends. Busy roads, wandering at night, getting into fights, out all day while you’re at work… it can certainly be a worry. Keep reading as the veterinary nurses at Daventry Vets have the purrrfect solution…
Maybe your cat would love a catio!
What is a catio?
Not just a fancy word, a catio is a creative addition to your home that could elevate your cat’s quality of life! Daventry Vets’ veterinary nurses explain how: short for ‘cat patio’, a catio is essentially a safe, enclosed outdoor space designed for cats. It provides a secure environment where your cat can enjoy being outdoors without the risks associated with roaming freely in and around Daventry. Think of it as your cat’s personal garden – a place where they can bask in the sunshine, watch the birds, and enjoy a bit of fresh air.
Got a catio already, or just popped one in your shopping cart? Share your Catio Brags on Social!
Benefits of a catio
- Safe Outdoor Access: Cats can enjoy exploring the outdoors safely whilst avoiding traffic, other animals, and getting lost, giving them a mini adventure in your garden and you, peace of mind.
- Enrichment and Exercise: A catio provides a space for climbing, scratching, and playing, keeping cats physically active and mentally stimulated.
- Reduce Indoor Boredom: A catio offers a new environment with exciting sights and smells, breaking the monotony for indoor cats.
- Fresh Air and Sunlight: Cats enjoy fresh air and sunshine, boosting their mood and overall wellbeing in a catio.
Our vet nurses also think catios are ideal during autumn and winter when the nights get darker earlier and roaming freely in and around Daventry can be more dangerous.
Choosing the right catio
Size and Space: Daventry Vets’ nurses say it’s important to consider the space you have available and your cat’s needs. Catios vary from small window boxes to large, free-standing structures. Ensure it’s spacious enough for your cat to move around comfortably, including enrichment activities like cat trees and scratching posts, and have comfortable bedding for them to relax on. Make it fun and inviting!
Safety Features: Ensure the catio is secure, durable, well-ventilated, easy to clean, and protected from the elements (with shade) to keep your cat comfortable and safe.
Accessibility: Consider how your cat will access the catio. Some attach to windows or have their own entryways. Ensure easy access for older cats with sore joints.
Suitability: Not all cats will enjoy limited roaming. A catio doesn’t have to be their only option, but it can serve as a safe choice for outdoor time when you want them close by.
Think your cat would love a catio? Go on, add a bit of adventure and luxury to your cat’s life with a catio, and provide a safe and stimulating outdoor experience that will help to keep them active, entertained, and happy! And remember to share your Catio Brags on social!
At Daventry Vets, we love helping cats have the most amazing lives.
Sarah Aldridge Shares Home Hacks to Make Life Easier for Arthritic Pets
Animal Pain Awareness Month (September) is a great time to focus on the wellbeing of our beloved dogs and cats, especially those grappling with arthritis. The team at Daventry Vets have put together a guide to help you better support your arthritic dog or cat at home.
Not sure if your pet has arthritis? The main signs in dogs and cats include limping, stiffness, difficulty jumping or climbing, reduced activity, noticeable pain during movement, and a change in demeanour.
How to help your arthritic dog or cat at home
Arthritis can make everyday activities uncomfortable for our furry friends. Getting your pet diagnosed promptly by one of our vets means they can receive the multi-modal treatment they need – this might include medication and various types of physical therapy. But Daventry Vets’ support doesn’t end there. Vet Sarah Aldridge is here to tell you that with some adjustments at home, you can significantly improve your arthritic pet’s quality of life.
1. Create comfortable resting areas
Sarah recommends providing your pet with a comfortable, quiet resting place. Choose a soft, supportive bed and position it in a calm, draft-free area. Consider an orthopaedic bed for extra comfort and ensure the bed is easily accessible (avoiding high platforms, high sides, and steps) to prevent further discomfort.
The best beds are ones that your pet can lie flat and stretch out.
2. Modify your home environment
You may need to help your pet with stairs and it may be safer to use a stair gate for dogs when you can’t supervise them. You can also help them by preventing slips on floors by using non-slip rugs or rug tape, and ensuring food and water bowls are at a comfortable height to avoid bending and stretching. Cats will benefit from low-sided litter boxes in multiple locations to reduce travel as well as ramps by furniture to help them reach their favourite spots.
3. Encourage regular exercise
For dogs, maintain regular exercise to help maintain joint health and loss of muscle, how much will depend on the severity of your dogs arthritis and their mobility level. Avoid high impact activities. Engage in low-impact play with soft toys and incorporate flexibility and core strength exercises, Sarah recommends Dogs4motion’s K9 conditioning course for seniors. For cats, Sarah recommends encouraging light exercise and play with mentally stimulating, interactive toys that don’t require excessive jumping or running.
4. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight can exacerbate feline and canine arthritis symptoms. It does this in 2 ways
1) The extra weight on your pet’s joints.
2) Fat produces inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Ensure your pet is the correct weight. We use body condition scoring to know when a pet is at their ideal weight. Book an appointment with our vet nurses, who can tell you what your pets body condition score is and help you with addition dietary advice.
5. Consider therapeutic aids
Sarah recommends using items like heated pet mats or blankets, which can provide soothing warmth for sore joints. Why not learn how to give your dog a soothing massage with Dogs4motions course.
What about joint supplements. Inspire of the huge number of supplements on the market their is actually very little evidence that they work. There is some evidence that distilled fish oil can help in the early stages. Please be very careful with this as if you give too much it can be toxic. Always consult with a vet before giving your pet supplements for arthritis or anything else. There are several prescription drugs that provide pain relief for arthritic dogs and cats.
6. Provide extra support
Dog harnesses or support slings can help when your dog is walking or climbing stairs. For cats, a soft, supportive carrier is ideal for vet visits or moving them around. These aids can provide additional support and reduce the strain on their joints. Ensuring your pet has easy access to all their favourite spots can also help them feel more comfortable and secure.
Managing arthritis in dogs and cats requires a combination of thoughtful adjustments and compassionate care. Animal Pain Awareness Month is a reminder of how important it is to be attentive to our pets’ needs so they can have a more comfortable and enjoyable life despite the challenges of arthritis. Get your pet checked for arthritis by one of our vets in Daventry now.
Noise Phobia in Dogs and Cats: How to Identify and Treat It
Noise phobia in dogs and cats is a common but distressing condition that can significantly impact their quality of life. This anxiety disorder causes pets to become extremely fearful of loud or sudden noises, leading to intense stress and behavioural changes. Our vets in Daventry have created this guide to help you understand noise phobia and its causes, symptoms, and treatment options to better support your furry friend.
With fireworks season just around the corner, contact the team at Daventry Veterinary Clinic to discuss which calming products for dogs or cats may help your furry friend cope.
Understanding noise phobia in dogs and cats
What is noise phobia?
Noise phobia is an intense fear or anxiety triggered by specific sounds. Unlike a simple reaction to loud noises, noise phobia involves a heightened and persistent fear that can lead to severe behavioural issues. Common noises that might trigger this phobia include thunderstorms, fireworks, sirens, or even household appliances.
How does noise phobia present in pets?
Our vets in Daventry share that pets with noise phobia may exhibit a range of distressing behaviours, including:
- Pacing and Restlessness: Pets may wander aimlessly or appear agitated.
- Hiding: They might seek refuge in enclosed spaces or under furniture.
- Vocalisation: Increased barking, whining, or meowing can be a sign of distress.
- Destructive Behaviour: Some pets may chew furniture or scratch walls.
- Shaking or Trembling: Physical signs of fear are common, particularly during loud noises.
These reactions can vary in severity depending on the individual pet and the intensity of the noise.
Contact us ahead of fireworks season to discuss calming aids for your pet.
Common causes of noise phobia in pets
Noise phobia can stem from a variety of causes:
- Lack of Early Socialisation: Pets who were not exposed to a range of sounds during their critical developmental period may be more susceptible to noise phobia.
- Traumatic Experiences: Past negative experiences related to loud noises, such as a frightening event during fireworks, can contribute to the development of this phobia.
- Genetics: Some pets may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders, making them more prone to developing noise phobia.
- Environmental Factors: Changes in the environment, such as moving to a new home or experiencing sudden loud noises, can trigger or exacerbate the condition.
How to treat noise phobia in pets
Our team of experienced vets at Daventry Vets have dealt with many cases of noise phobia over the years. They advise that addressing it involves a combination of strategies to help reduce anxiety and manage symptoms:
- Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet, secure area in your home where your pet can retreat during noisy events. Provide comfortable bedding and familiar items to help them feel safe.
- Desensitisation: Gradually expose your pet to recorded sounds of the noises that trigger their phobia at a low volume, increasing the volume over time. Pair these sessions with positive reinforcement to help them associate the sounds with rewards.
- Use Calming Products: Calming aids such as anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or calming treats can help alleviate anxiety. Ask our vets in Daventry to discuss the most suitable options for your pet with you – get in touch.
- Professional Help: For severe cases, book an appointment at Daventry Vets. The vet will examine your pet for any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to their anxiety, as well as provide a tailored treatment plan, and medication if necessary. They may also discuss behavioural therapy and enlisting the help of a veterinary behaviourist.
- Maintain Routine: Keeping a consistent routine can provide stability and comfort for your pet, helping to reduce overall anxiety.
In conclusion, noise phobia can significantly impact a pet’s wellbeing, but with the right approach, it is manageable. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective treatment strategies, you can help your pet feel more secure and less fearful. If you have concerns about your pet’s behaviour, don’t hesitate to contact our team in Daventry for advice.
