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.
Vet Sarah Aldridge Shares Why Cats Soil Indoors and Ways to Help
Cats are known for their impeccable grooming habits. So, it can be quite a surprise and a concern if your usually clean cat starts eliminating outside their litter box. While the occasional accident might happen, persistent indoor toileting (also known as inappropriate elimination) shouldn’t be ignored.
Here at Daventry Vets, we understand how frustrating and upsetting this behaviour can be for both you and your cat. Our Vet Sarah Aldridge has a wealth of experience in this area and is sharing some reasons why your cat might be using your home as their new toilet, and what you can do about it below.
Why your cat could be soiling indoors
Medical:
1. Urinary Tract Issues: Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or other urinary problems can cause discomfort and lead to inappropriate urination.
2. Diabetes or Kidney Disease: These conditions can increase thirst and urination, making it difficult for your cat to reach the litter box in time.
3. Painful Elimination: Arthritis and other painful conditions can make using the litter box uncomfortable, prompting your cat to find a softer spot. If your cat normally toilets outdoors, pain could be causing them to struggle with the cat flap.
Sarah recommends booking a check-up for your cat at our vet practice in Daventry, so we can rule out the above or get your cat the treatment they urgently need.
Litter Box Blues:
4. Location, Location, Location: Is the litter box in a quiet, easily accessible location? Loud noises or heavy foot traffic might deter your cat from using it.
5. Cleanliness Counts: Cats are very particular about hygiene. A dirty litter box is a major turn-off. Scoop waste daily and completely change the litter regularly.
6. Box Style Matters: Some cats prefer open litter boxes, while others prefer covered ones. Experiment to see what your cat finds most comfortable.
7. Not Enough Boxes: Sarah advises that the general rule is one litter box per cat, plus an extra one. For a multi-cat household, consider having boxes on different floors or in separate areas.
8. Not enough litter: Always make sure there is plenty of litter in the tray.
9. Type of litter: some cats gets very used to a type or brand of litter and don’t like it changing.
10. Perfumed liners, litters or sprays: We may think it makes the litter tray smell better. Your cat won’t and may avoid the litter tray
Stressful Situations:
11. New Arrivals: A new pet, baby, or even changes in furniture placement can cause stress in your cat, leading to inappropriate elimination.
12. Feeling Unsafe: Does your cat feel threatened by other pets in the house or outside? Providing them with hiding spots and safe spaces can help them feel more secure.
What to do if your cat is soiling indoors
- Schedule a Check-up: Sarah advises that the first step is to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Book a check-up with us at Daventry Vets to discuss your cat’s elimination habits and overall health.
- Investigate the Environment: Consider the factors mentioned above and adjust the litter box setup, location, and overall household environment to see if things improve.
- Interim Solutions: If your cat is soiling in a particular spot (or two), scrub the area with pet-safe cleaning products to remove/mask their scent and avoid this becoming a long-term ‘toilet spot’. You could also try using cat training pads in the interim to keep your home clean whilst you investigate.
- Patience and Care: Addressing inappropriate elimination can take time and patience. Focus on creating a positive association with the litter box and avoid punishment, which can worsen the problem.
By understanding the reasons behind your cat’s indoor toileting and taking steps to address them, you can help your feline friend return to using their litter box and create a more harmonious household for everyone.
We’re here to help your cat stay healthy and happy so don’t hesitate to book a cat check-up with us via our website, or call us now on 01327 877767.
Daventry Vets Shares Reunion Tales of Long-Lost Microchipped Cats
The team at Daventry Vets team know there’s nothing quite like the bond between a cat and their owner. Unfortunately, sometimes our beloved feline friends go missing, leaving a void in our hearts. However, thanks to the power of cat microchipping, many of these long-lost cats have been joyfully reunited with their humans. With the recent enforcement of the new microchipping law for cats in England, we believe it’s an ideal time to highlight the importance of microchipping and share some heartwarming stories of happy reunions.
Heartwarming reunions of long-lost cats
Daventry Vets’ team have found some incredible reunion stories of lost cats, showing that there is always hope if your cat has been microchipped. Read on to learn about Toby, Fred, and Oscar and our very own story of a cat who travelled far from home.
Toby, missing for 11 years, returns home
After fearing Toby was gone forever in 2012, this adventurous tabby was miraculously returned home to his astonished owners 11 years later! A quick scan of Toby’s microchip by Cats Protection revealed his owner’s contact details, leading to an emotional reunion. Read Toby’s full story here.
Fred turns up 5 years later, 2 miles away
Fred’s owner was devastated when he went missing in 2019. Turns out he had been living as a stray before being taken in by a kind elderly man, who took Fred to a local vet for a checkup. The microchip scan brought unexpected joy to his owner who had given up hope of ever seeing him again. Read Fred’s full story here.
Book a cat microchipping appointment now at our vet practice in Daventry.
Oscar, lost in a snowstorm, gets a happy reunion
In the heavy snow of January 2022, Oscar took off and didn’t return home. After endless searching and social media posts, Oscar’s owner presumed him dead. Then one day, 3 years later, a vet called to say Oscar had been living in a garden just 6 miles away and had been identified by his microchip! Read Oscar’s full story here.
Welsh cat finds himself in Daventry
A few years ago now one of our clients asked if we could scan a cat that was new on their close. No one on the close recognised him and he had appeared suddenly. One of our nurses scanned the cat, and they were relieved to find he was microchipped. They looked up the number to find he was from Wales! His owner was contacted and it turned out they lived opposite a caravan park, so he had hitched a lift to Daventry in a caravan! His owners were overjoyed to be reunited with him.
The importance of Cat Microchipping
These incredible stories are not just rare occurrences. Our team say they highlight the vital role that cat microchipping plays in reuniting lost cats with their owners. The new law, which came into effect on June 10th 2024, mandates that all cats in the UK over 20 weeks old must be microchipped. This regulation aims to reduce the number of lost cats and increase the chances of reunions like the ones mentioned above.
It’s not too late to microchip your cat
If you haven’t yet microchipped your cat, it’s not too late. Daventry Vets highlights some compelling reasons why you should book your cat’s microchipping appointment without delay:
- Quick Identification: A microchip is a reliable and permanent solution to ensure your cat can be identified if they ever get lost, unlike collars and tags, which can come off.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your cat has a microchip gives you peace of mind. Should your pet ever wander off, there’s a higher chance of them being reunited with you.
- Legal Requirement: Complying with the new law helps to avoid fines and ensures that your cat is part of a nationwide effort to improve cat safety and welfare.
The recent stories of long-lost cats being reunited with their owners underscores the immense value of microchipping. As we adjust to the new cat microchipping law, let’s take proactive steps to ensure our beloved pets are protected. Don’t delay – get your cat microchipped at Daventry Vets today.
Navigate Pet Food Shopping with Daventry Vets
You’re not alone when it comes to having trouble choosing the best pet food for your dog or cat. With 10.5 million tonnes of pet food products sold annually across Europe and a 5.1% annual growth rate for this industry*, it’s no wonder you can feel flummoxed!
Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets have crafted a simple guide to help pet owners in Northamptonshire navigate the process of pet food shopping.
As vets, we’re often asked about the vast array of pet food choices on the market. From kitten kibble, home cooked, raw, fresh cooked commercial, senior support, the options can be overwhelming. Yet, there’s a straightforward explanation for this diversity: a pet’s nutritional requirements evolve throughout their lifespan. Let’s delve into why life stage matters in pet food, decipher what “complete pet food” means, and underscore the importance of consulting with a veterinary professional for maintaining your pet’s health.
Life stages of your pet
- Growth: Picture a lively puppy or kitten with endless energy and a hearty appetite, fuelling their adventures and growth. Puppy and kitten food is rich in protein, calcium, and essential nutrients to support their rapid development. There are scientifically calculated nutrient requirements for this lifestage.
- Adult: Once your pet reaches adulthood (around 1 year for cats and varying for dogs depending on breed), their growth rate slows down. Adult pet food provides the balanced nutrition they need to maintain a healthy weight, support their immune system, and keep them active.
- Golden Years: As pets age, their bodies change. Senior pet food often has lower calorie content to help prevent weight gain. Not all senior pets will need senior food especially if they are very active. Vet Sarah feeds her senior dog adult food as he is very active, fit and ideal body condition.
Our experienced team at Daventry Vets can advise you on all of this – book a tailored nutrition appointment now.
What does “complete pet food” mean?
You might see the term “complete pet food” on packaging. Our vets in Daventry advise that it signifies the food meets all your pet’s nutritional requirements for their life stage, as set by organisations like the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). This means you don’t need to add any supplements unless specifically recommended by your vet.
We recommend choosing a brand that meets the FEDIAF requirements whatever type of food you choose to feed.
Why choose high quality pet food?
Think of pet food as the foundation of your pet’s health. High-quality complete pet food, formulated for their life stage, provides the essential building blocks for a long and healthy life. It can also support digestion, skin and coat health, and even cognitive function.
Want to feed a home prepared diet?
Some pet owners want to feed a home prepared diet. Studies have shown that without proper formulation these are usually deficient in various nutrients. If you want to feed a home prepared diet we recommend using a veterinary nutritionalist to formulate this for you.
Why consult your vet?
While complete pet food offers a balanced base, every pet is an individual. Book a tailored nutrition appointment with one of our vets, who will consider your pet’s age, breed, activity level, and any specific health concerns to recommend the best pet food for their unique needs. They can also help with tricky transitions between life stages and advise on portion control to maintain a healthy weight.
Cats especially need a well-thought-out transition between different foods, as some changes in diet can negatively affect their health.
Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets want pet owners in Northamptonshire to remember: When it comes to pet food, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t exist. By understanding the importance of life stage nutrition, choosing good quality complete pet food, or properly formulated home prepared diets and consulting your vet, you’re giving your pet the nutritional foundation they need to thrive at every stage of their life. We don’t sell life stage diets so have no allegiance to any particular brand. We like you just want the best for your pet.
*Stats from www.europeanpetfood.org
Effective Kitten Litter Training Tips from Daventry Vets’ Nurses
Emptying your kitten’s litter box may not be the highlight of your day, but investing time in training your kitten to use it correctly can save you a lot of hassle down the line.Daventry Vets’ nursing team have compiled some invaluable advice on litter training your kitten effectively and instilling good habits for life. Read on for our nursing team’s expert tips:
Contact us for more kitten advice
Litter Box Choice and Care
When it comes to getting the set up right, Daventry Vets’ nursing team have this advice for new kitten owners in Northamptonshire.
First, choose a litter box that mimics a cat’s natural environment by considering factors like size, material, and accessibility. For example, selecting a larger litter box with low sides can resemble the open space that cats prefer for eliminating. Additionally, opting for unscented, clumping litter can replicate the texture and consistency of sand, which many cats prefer for covering their waste. Avoid covered litter boxes, which may make your kitten feel trapped. Don’t use scented liners your kitten won’t like them.
Place the litter box away from food and water bowls and keep it clean. Remove soiled clumps from the litter tray at least twice a day and wash it out at regularly. Cats are sensitive to odours, so a heavily soiled litter box may discourage your kitten from using it.
If you have more than one cat, our Daventry veterinary nurses advise that you should have one litter box per cat, plus an extra box. This means if you have two cats, they should ideally have three litter boxes, three cats should have four litter boxes, and so on. Having multiple litter boxes ensures that each cat has access to a clean and private space for elimination, which can help prevent territorial issues and encourage good litter box habits. The ideal is to have one tray per cat and one extra.
3 Easy-to-follow Litter Training Steps:
- Show your new kitten where their litter tray is as soon as they arrive – you may need to move this to an area your kitten feels comfortable in so keep an eye on them.
- Place your kitten in their litter box after an event i.e. after they have eaten, played and slept.
- Be persistent and patient to ensure good, lifelong habits. Litter training your kitten will not happen overnight but they will eventually learn to associate this time with going to the toilet and will take themselves to the litter box after each event.
Thanks for reading our article on litter training your kitten, we hope you found the advice from our Daventry nursing team helpful.
Help others by sharing our tips with friends and family who may be welcoming a new kitten into their home!
Top Tips from Sarah on Summer BBQ Pet Safety
Ah, the sizzle of sausages, the aroma of burgers on the grill… there’s nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. But while we humans may be drooling over the delicious delights cooking up, let’s not forget about our furry friends who are eager to join in on the fun. To ensure a paw-some barbecue experience for everyone, here are some top tips from our Vet, Sarah Aldridge at Daventry Vets, to keep your pets safe and happy around the grill.
And just in case you need it, here is the emergency number for our vets in Daventry – 01327 877767.
See our contact and emergency information
How to Grill & Chill this Summer
If you know your pets will be into everything, it may be wise to keep them indoors, but if your pets can handle your ‘BBQ rules’, here’s Sarah’s tips for how to Grill & Chill:
- Create a ‘Safe Zone’: First things first, Sarah recommends establishing a designated ‘pet zone’ away from the grill and cooking area. Set up a shady spot with water bowls and comfy bedding where pets can stay cool while you flip the burgers. Portable pet pens are handy for this.
- Keep an Eye on Pets: Naturally, the sight & smell of food cooking on the grill will tempt pets to investigate. To prevent them from getting too close to the grill or attempting to steal barbecue food, keep a close eye on them or put someone on ‘grill guard duty’ to steer roaming pets away to safety.
- Beware of Hot Surfaces: Grills can reach scorching temperatures that pose a burn risk to curious noses and paws, long after cooking has finished. Sarah suggests using a grill cover or barrier to prevent pets from accessing the grill area altogether to avoid accidental burns, and have a plan for hot ash afterwards – see our emergency information.
- Pet-safe Barbecue Foods: While it’s tempting to share your barbecue feast with your furry pals, not all barbecue foods are safe for pets. Avoid giving them toxic or harmful foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, chicken bones, corn on the cob, and foods high in salt, spices, fatty juices, or sugar. Stick to pet-safe treats like plain grilled chicken or lean meat without seasoning. Consider grilling apple, mango, or cucumber for a tasty BBQ treat, if your pet can eat them or why not give them some of their favourite dog or cat treats.
- Watch Out for Falling Food: Accidents happen, and tasty treats may accidentally fall onto the ground. Picking up dropped food instantly will prevent pets from eating it; some items may pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal upset.
- Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of water during the barbecue festivities for pets to drink. If they seem unwell, call our vets in Daventry on 01327 877767.
- Have a Plan for Leftovers: Clearing up thoroughly straight after a BBQ is vital when you have pets. Disposing of barbecue leftovers and scraps promptly and securely will prevent dogs and cats from scavenging through the rubbish. Leftover bones, skewers, and other barbecue remnants can pose choking or get stuck in their intestines, a top culprit for getting stuck is corn on the cob.
With these grill-tastic tips in mind, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and enjoyable barbecue season together in Northamptonshire. Plus, you’ll be helping to keep wildlife safe too! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the summer celebrations begin!
And remember, call 01327 877767 in an emergency.
Need to give your cat a tablet? Daventry Vets’ nurses break it down
If you’re wondering how to give your cat a tablet without getting scratched to pieces, you’ve come to the right place. Daventry Vets’ experienced nurses are the perfect people to help you with this!
If, after reading our article, you have further questions or are not feeling confident in giving your cat a tablet at home, talk to our veterinary nursing team in Daventry who will be happy to help.
How to give your cat a tablet
Administering medication to your feline companion doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a variety of methods available, you can find the approach that works best for you and your cat. Here are five effective ways, tried and tested by our Daventry veterinary nurses, to give a cat a tablet:
- Direct Administration: This involves placing the tablet directly at the back of your cat’s tongue. Hold the tablet between your thumb and index finger, tilt your cat’s head slightly upwards, and place the tablet deep into their mouth. Follow up with a gentle massage of the throat to encourage swallowing. This method won’t be right for all cats and you may need a second person to hold your cat. If you think this will be too distressing for your cat and you are at risk of being scratched or bitten, our nurses advice for Daventry cat owners, is to try one of the methods below instead.
- Crush & Mix: For cats who are finicky about taking tablets, crushing the medication and mixing it with their food can be a viable option. Ask our team whether your cat’s medication is safe to crush, as some tablets are formulated for extended release and should not be altered. Mix the crushed tablet thoroughly with a small amount of their favourite wet food to mask any bitterness.
- Hide in Treats or Food: Another effective method is hiding the tablet in a high-value treat or food item. Choose a treat that your cat loves and carefully conceal the tablet inside. For example, you can use a small piece of cooked chicken or a chunk of tuna. Be sure to monitor your cat to ensure they consume the entire treat, including the hidden tablet.
- Pill Pockets: Pill pockets are specially designed treats with a hollow centre where you can insert the tablet. These treats are available in various flavours and textures, making them an appealing option for many cats. Simply place the tablet inside the pill pocket, pinch the ends to seal it shut, and offer it to your cat as a tasty snack.
- Liquid treats: Lots of our lovely clients have told us that their cats love Lick-e-Lix and that they hide tablets and liquid medications in it.
- Liquid Medication: If your cat is particularly resistant to taking tablets, you can ask your vet if the medication is available in liquid form. Liquid medication can be easier to administer, especially for cats who are skilled at spitting out tablets. If liquid medication is available, our Daventry veterinary team can provide you with a syringe or dropper to accurately measure and administer the prescribed dosage.
Experiment with these different methods to find the one that works best for your cat’s individual preferences and temperament. Remember to always follow your vet’s instructions regarding medication dosage and administration.
If you’re unsure about the best approach for your cat, don’t hesitate to talk to the nurses at our Drayton Fields vet practice for guidance and support. With patience and persistence, you can ensure that your cat receives the medication they need to stay happy and healthy.
Before you go, May 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), a month-long celebration of veterinary nurses everywhere for their hard work and commitment to providing the very best care for pets and owners. We know our nursing team would love to hear from you, so why not share how they’ve helped you and your pet on our Facebook page, with the hashtag #VNAM24
Daventry Vets shares five signs your cat may have fleas
As pet owners, we strive to provide the best possible care for our feline friends, but sometimes even the most diligent cat parents may overlook one common issue: fleas. These tiny parasites can quickly become a nuisance for both cats and their human companions. In this article from the veterinary team at Daventry Vets, we’ll explore the signs that your cat may have fleas and what you can do to help keep them comfortable and flea-free.
Order your cat’s flea treatment
Five signs your cat may have fleas
- Excessive scratching and grooming: According to veterinary surgeon Sarah Aldridge, one of the most common signs of a flea infestation in cats is excessive scratching, biting, or licking of the skin. If you notice your cat constantly grooming themselves or scratching at certain areas of their body, particularly around the neck, head, or base of the tail, it could be a sign that fleas are present.
- Visible fleas or flea dirt: Fleas are small, fast-moving insects that can be challenging to spot, especially in cats with dense fur. However, you may be able to detect them by parting your cat’s fur and looking for tiny, dark brown insects crawling close to the skin. Additionally, you may notice small dark specks, known as flea dirt, on your cat’s fur or bedding. Flea dirt is actually flea faeces composed of digested blood and is a telltale sign of flea infestation. Ask the team at our Daventry vet practice about the best type of flea comb to help you with this task.
- Skin irritation and redness: Flea bites can cause irritation and even allergic reactions in some cats, leading to redness, inflammation, and even hair loss in severe cases. If you notice any signs of skin irritation or dermatitis in your cat, Sarah advises that you should consider fleas as a potential cause.
- Restlessness and irritability: Cats with fleas may exhibit signs of restlessness, irritability, or discomfort, especially if the infestation is severe. They may be more agitated than usual and may have difficulty relaxing or sleeping peacefully.
- Presence of tapeworms: Fleas can transmit tapeworm eggs to cats, leading to the development of tapeworm infections. If you notice small, rice-like segments around your cat’s bottom or in their faeces, it could indicate a tapeworm infestation secondary to flea exposure.
Order flea treatment from us
Sarah recommends that if you suspect your cat has fleas, you should take action promptly to address the infestation and provide relief for your furry friend. Order vet recommended prescription-only flea treatment from Daventry Vets to help eliminate fleas from your cat and it’s environment and prevent future infestations. We offer a variety of safe and effective flea control products designed specifically for cats. Only 5% of fleas are on your cat, the remainder and other stages of their life cycle will be in your house therefore it is important to control both.
If your cat has scabs, sores or inflammation they may need additional medication book an appointment with one of our vets
Sarah and the rest of our experienced veterinary team can provide personalised recommendations for flea treatment based on your cat’s individual needs and lifestyle.
Don’t let fleas disrupt your cat’s life, order flea treatment from us today. If you have any questions or concerns about fleas or flea control, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.
Order your cat’s flea treatment
Vet Sarah Aldridge explores essential facts about cat leukaemia virus
As responsible cat owners, it’s crucial to stay informed about potential health threats that could impact our feline companions. One such concern is Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV), an incurable, contagious disease that produces fatal illnesses in cats. In this article, our Vet Sarah Aldridge explores essential facts about cat leukaemia, discusses common symptoms, and emphasises the importance of prevention through vaccination. To ensure your cat’s wellbeing, we encourage you to take the proactive step of booking a cat vaccination appointment with our veterinary practice in Daventry.
Facts about Feline Leukaemia:
What is Feline Leukaemia? Vet Sarah gets asked this question by many cat owners and so is sharing these facts below.
- Viral Infection: Feline Leukaemia Virus is a retrovirus that can affect cats worldwide. It primarily spreads through close contact with an infected cat, such as mutual grooming, mating, shared food, water bowls, and litter trays or bite wounds. If a pregnant female is infected the kittens usually die before birth, but any that are born will be infected.
- Highly Contagious: FeLV is highly contagious among cats, making it crucial for owners of multiple cats or those whose cats interact with outdoor felines in and around Northamptonshire to be especially vigilant. Kittens tend to be more susceptible to getting FeLV but cats of all ages can contract the virus.
Common symptoms of Cat Leukaemia:
- Initially: Many cats only experience mild symptoms of fever and lethargy and it takes months or years for more severe signs to show. The signs can be variable as the main effect the virus has is to damage the white blood cells.
- Lethargy: Cats infected with FeLV often exhibit increased fatigue and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of various health issues, including FeLV. Sarah advises to monitor your cat’s weight and contact us if you notice significant changes.
- Recurrent & Secondary Infections: FeLV suppresses the cat’s immune system. Cats with FeLV may experience frequent respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
- Pale Gums and Mucous Membranes: FeLV can cause anaemia, leading to pale gums and mucous membranes. Our cat vets in Daventry can perform blood tests to check for anaemia and assess overall health.
- Cancer of the white blood cells call lymphosarcomas.
Diagnosis, treatment & management:
Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is diagnosed with blood tests. Unfortunately these are not 100% accurate and some cats can clear the infection. It is always important to consider the results in conjunction with the health of the cat and definitely repeat tests for healthy cats after 12 weeks. Sometimes it will be necessary to send blood for testing by other techniques to a commercial laboratory.
Sadly, while there is no cure for FeLV, Sarah wants owners to know that supportive care and management can help improve the quality of life and extend survival in affected cats. This may include addressing secondary infections with antibiotics, managing symptoms such as anaemia or dehydration, providing a balanced diet, and minimising stressors. Keeping an infected cat indoors and if possible isolated from other cats reduces the chance of them passing on the disease and also picking up infections.Regular veterinary check-ups at Daventry Vets are essential for monitoring health and so your vet can adjust treatment as needed.
Preventing Feline Leukaemia Virus Infections:
- Vaccination: Vaccination is by far the most effective way to prevent Feline Leukaemia Virus. Our veterinary practice in Daventry offers safe and reliable vaccines that can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Book a cat vaccination appointment to ensure your feline friend is protected.
- Testing and Isolation: If you’re introducing a new cat to your household or have concerns about an outdoor cat’s health, it’s essential to conduct Feline Leukaemia testing and isolate any infected cats to prevent the spread of the virus. Contact Daventry Vets for more information.
- Indoor Living: Keeping your cat indoors can significantly reduce their exposure to potential sources of infection in Northamptonshire. If your cat enjoys the outdoors, you might want to consider creating a secure and enclosed outdoor space.
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Routine examinations allow our vets to monitor your cat’s health and detect any potential issues early on so be sure to schedule regular check-ups.
Book a Cat Vaccination appointment:
To ensure your cat’s protection against Feline Leukaemia Virus, Daventry Vets strongly recommends booking a cat vaccination appointment at our Drayton Fields veterinary practice. Our experienced team are dedicated to providing the best care for your feline friends, and vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing and managing infectious diseases.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – take the proactive step of safeguarding your cat’s health.
