The Importance of Tick Prevention by Our Vets in Daventry
As temperatures rise in Northamptonshire, ticks become more active—starting prevention early is one of the simplest ways to protect your pet. Ticks aren’t just unpleasant; they can transmit serious illnesses, including Lyme disease, which can affect dogs, cats (albeit less commonly) and humans, and may cause long-term joint and kidney problems.
Early, consistent protection helps break the cycle of disease and infestation, often killing ticks before they can transmit serious illnesses. Our vets at Daventry Vets advise arranging your tick prevention treatment early this season – just book an appointment and we’ll provide tailored protection.
Protecting pets from ticks this season
Why early protection matters
Ticks are often picked up on walks through long grass, woodland edges, or areas frequented by livestock and deer in Northamptonshire. Once attached, they can feed for hours or days, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
Regular preventative treatments create a protective barrier, killing or repelling ticks before they can do harm. Book an appointment to speak to our vets in Daventry, or reorder your tick medication via our website.
Protecting cats and dogs
- Use a vet-recommended tick preventative treatments regularly, tailored to your pet’s lifestyle.
- Check your pet after time outdoors, especially dogs after countryside walks and cats that roam around Northamptonshire.
- Pay close attention to hidden spots: ears, neck, armpits, groin and between toes.
- Keep lawns trimmed to reduce damp, shady habitats where ticks thrive
- Discourage tick-carrying hosts, such as deer and rodents, by securing rubbish bins, removing fallen fruit, and using deer-resistant fencing or plants (if you have these visit your garden).
How to remove a tick safely
If you find a tick, don’t panic; and don’t pull it out with fingers or tweezers. Use a tick removal tool, which slides under the tick and gently twists it away from the skin. Twisting (not pulling) reduces the risk of leaving mouthparts behind or squeezing infectious material into the bite.
Ask us about tick removal tools. Our nurses at Daventry Vets are happy to show you how to use them.
Tick FAQs
Should I check my cat regularly for ticks?
Yes. Our vets in Daventry recommend that outdoor cats, especially those hunting or roaming near fields and hedgerows, should be checked routinely.
What will a tick look like on my pet?
Ticks appear as small, dark bumps attached to the skin. As they feed, they can swell and look like a grey or brown bead.
How do I check my pet for ticks?
Run your hands slowly over your pet’s body after time outside, feeling for small lumps. Part the fur to inspect the skin closely.
What diseases do ticks spread?
Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other infections that may cause lameness, lethargy, fever, and appetite changes. For tailored tick protection, book an appointment with our team at Daventry Vets and let’s keep your pet safe this season.
Get Your Pet Ready for Their Springtime Adventures
With the days growing longer and the weather finally turning, most pets are naturally eager to get back outside but before the fun really begins, it’s worth making sure your pet’s body is ready to keep up.
Read the article below, from our vet Sarah Aldridge, on how to help your pet enjoy the season comfortably, confidently and at their best. Then, book a wellness check with our vets at Daventry Vets.
Plus, download our spring pet tips for extra advice!
Get your pet fit for spring: why a wellness check matters
Over the winter months in Northamptonshire, many UK pets quietly put on a little extra weight or become stiffer, particularly during the cold, damp days of January and February. Older pets may move more slowly, while younger ones can mask small aches or niggles that only become obvious once activity levels increase. Sarah explains that left unchecked, these minor issues can turn into bigger problems and put a dampener on your spring plans.
A spring wellness check allows our vets in Daventry to assess your pet’s overall health, focusing on areas that matter most as exercise increases. We’ll look at heart health, joint mobility and body condition, making sure your pet is comfortable, fit and ready for the season ahead.
Sarah shares how catching subtle changes early means our team can offer immediate support – whether that’s lifestyle advice, weight management or joint care – before discomfort sets in.
Preventative care is also an important part of spring preparation. As pets spend more time outdoors, the risk of parasites increases. A wellness check is the perfect opportunity to review worming, flea and tick protection, ensuring your pet is fully covered before parasites become more active. You can then continue to order your tick medication via our website.
Sarah advises that our veterinary team at Daventry Vets can also check that vaccinations are up to date, helping protect against preventable diseases as social interactions and outdoor exposure increase.
Think of a spring wellness check as a seasonal MOT for your pet – a chance to spot small issues early, support long-term health and give you peace of mind as you head into a more active time of year.
Book a spring wellness check today
Before you go, remember to download our spring pet tips for even more seasonal advice!
Stepping Into Spring: Refreshing Your Pet’s Daily Routine
As the days start to get longer here in Northamptonshire, many of us are looking forward to the arrival of spring. However, the long winter months can often lead to less activity and a few extra “comfort” treats for our pets. Overfeeding and disrupted exercise schedules during the colder months can affect weight, energy levels, and overall wellbeing.
With spring just around the corner, now is a great opportunity to check in on your pet’s health and ensure they are ready for more active days ahead. In this article, Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s nurses advise on how to refine your habits at home.
If you need extra help, contact us at our Daventry vet practice and we’ll arrange to see your pet for a top-to-tail check.
Talk to us for tailored advice
Preparing your pet for an active Spring
Refine regular feeding
During the colder months, it’s easy to over-indulge our pets with extra treats. Returning to a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions helps support a healthy weight and digestive comfort as we head into a more active season. Our nursing team at Daventry Vets advise gradually adjusting portions rather than making abrupt changes, which can upset sensitive stomachs.
Get moving
Exercise is key for all pets, not just dogs. As the weather improves around Northamptonshire, increasing play sessions or gentle activity can help pets burn off those winter calories. Cats and small mammals benefit from interactive play or puzzle feeders. For dogs, start increasing the duration of your walks gradually to build up their stamina for the springtime.
Maintain daily routines
Our nurses at Daventry Vets explain how pets thrive on consistency. Reinstating firm routines—such as set walk times, feeding times, and bedtime habits—helps them feel secure and reduces stress as the season changes.
Check-ups and monitoring
Late February is the perfect time to review your pet’s overall health before the busy spring season begins. Check their body condition, look for changes in behaviour, and ensure any weight gain or dental issues are addressed promptly. Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s veterinary team are happy to provide advice, support, and routine health checks to help your pet step into spring in the best shape possible. Call us for advice or pop into the practice—our vets in Daventry love seeing your pets!
Talk to us for tailored advice
Looking for more pet care news? Explore our range of seasonal pet care articles with expert advice from our team on our news page.
Hidden Hurt: How Dental Problems Can Change Your Cat’s Behaviour
Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, which can make recognising health issues challenging for owners. One area often overlooked is dental health. Problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis, and oral infections can cause significant pain, yet many cats show few obvious signs until the issue becomes severe.
February is Pet Dental Health Month, and our vets in Daventry are highlighting the indicators of dental pain in cats and what you can do at home to help prevent it. Looking for dental care services for cats in Northamptonshire? Our veterinary team are here to help.
If you suspect your cat may have dental problems or they’re due a check-up, book an appointment for a check-up with our vets at Daventry Vets.
Is your cat in pain? Spotting the subtle signs of dental issues
Dental pain can influence behaviour in subtle ways. A cat in discomfort may eat more slowly, drop food from their mouth, or show a preference for softer foods. You might notice them chewing on one side only or avoiding hard treats altogether. Grooming habits can also change; a cat with sore teeth or gums may struggle to clean themselves properly, leading to a patchy or unkempt coat.
Temperament shifts are another key indicator. Cats experiencing dental pain may become withdrawn, hide more frequently, or show irritability when handled around the head. Even normally sociable cats might seek solitude, while gentle play or interaction could be met with unexpected swipes or growls.
These changes can be misinterpreted as behavioural issues rather than health concerns – contact Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s team on 01327 877767 for advice. Left untreated, dental problems can escalate, causing infections that affect other parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, and liver. Pain can reduce appetite, leading to weight loss and reduced energy, further impacting overall wellbeing.
Regular dental checks with our vets in Daventry are essential, even if your cat appears healthy. During these examinations, our vets can identify early signs of dental disease that are not visible at home, from tartar buildup to gum inflammation. Preventative care, including professional cleanings and guidance on home dental routines, helps maintain oral health and can prevent pain before it starts.
Observing your cat’s eating habits, grooming and behaviour closely is the best way to catch potential issues early. If you notice any subtle changes, such as reluctance to eat, altered grooming, or shifts in temperament, contact our team at Daventry Vets promptly as early intervention not only alleviates pain but supports your cat’s overall health and happiness.
Get Inspired with Daventry Vets’ New Year Pet Goals
Whether you started on January 1st or you’re just getting going now, New Year’s resolutions are still fresh on many minds… and while you’re thinking of the goals you’d like to achieve, remember to share that positivity with your furry friend! It’s a chance to give them a healthier, more fulfilling life – and that means even more time soaking up the unique bond the two of you share.
The thought of writing those pesky resolutions can be daunting, so our vets in Daventry have come up with a few strategies to make this year the best one yet for your pet. To get started, why not have get some tailored advice from our team at Daventry Vets? That’s one resolution already crossed off!
How to set Pet Health Goals for the New Year
Establish some ground rules
One of the biggest causes of failed New Year’s resolutions is setting unclear or unrealistic expectations – think taking your small pooch for an hour-long adventure in Northamptonshire when they’re used to small walks around the block! Instead, decide what health and wellness means for your pet along with the target areas, and identify specific, reachable goals within these, such as physical and emotional health, mental stimulation, dental routine and behavioural needs.
Healthy diet, happy pet
When it comes to shedding some excess pounds and changing diet, your pet needs you to do the heavy lifting. This means providing them with a well-balanced diet – especially one recommended by your vet – that meets their nutritional needs, sticking to the correct portions, and swapping out calorie dense treats for healthier alternatives. It also means avoiding giving them human food as although it may seem enticing, it can lead to a number of health issues and weight gain, according to our vets in Daventry.
Get more physical
Doing regular exercise releases endorphins and helps keep your pet (and you) healthy in body and mind. Win-win. Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s team recommend setting time aside every day where your pet can get physical – for dogs, this may mean a walk, playing fetch, or an obstacle course indoors if the weather in Northamptonshire is treacherous. For an added bonus, you’re getting involved too, helping you reach your own fitness goals and strengthening the connection between you and your beloved pet – the ultimate support network. For a cat, climbing structures and toys can helping them move more and have fun.
Support their mental health
To prevent boredom, keep them happy and lower the risk of destructive behaviours, it’s just as important to stay on top of your pet’s mental health as well as physical. Along with their much-loved – and half-eaten – toys, make this the year you try new enrichment ideas, such as new activities, training exercises, environments or a puzzle feeder, which supports their problem-solving abilities. Keep them on their furry toes, all year long.
Keep their health in check
It’s better to be too early than too late, and proactive healthcare helps to detect and tackle any health problems as they appear, resulting in better outcomes for your pet. Our vets in Daventry recommend visiting every six months, but this can vary based on your pet’s age, breed, and health requirements. If you have any questions, just pop in to see us — here’s our opening times.
Book your pet’s new year health check with our caring and compassionate team at Daventry Vets and know you’re already making good progress with your resolutions!
Keeping Pets Out of Trouble This Holiday Season in Northamptonshire
‘Tis the season to be jolly… not stressed out due to a midnight dash to our emergency service in Daventry!
Every year at Daventry Vets we see a spike in emergency vet visits over the holiday season as pets encounter dangers that can be prevented wth a few extra safeguards in place.
Keep our emergency details handy
Avoidable pet emergencies at Christmas – what owners need to know
It’s all too common…Christmas Eve and the dog’s eaten the chocolate yule log – time to call the emergency vet!
We want to help you avoid these dangers, so here are the three most common yet avoidable causes of emergency admissions that we see at Daventry Vets every year.
Accidental poisoning
Curious pets explore with their mouths. Sadly, many common festive items can be harmful. Daventry Vets’ team advise that pet owners should keep harmful items out of reach:
- Human food & drink: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, and alcohol (to name a few) are all toxic for pets.
- Medications: Keep all tablets and liquids locked away.
- Household chemicals: Wipe up spills of cleaning products or antifreeze straight away.
- Poisonous plants: Lilies, poinsettias, mistletoe and holly berries are festive but toxic.
Ingestion
At Christmas, it’s common to see pets who have swallowed things they shouldn’t. Decorations, ribbons, and tinsel can cause intestinal blockages, while dogs especially may chew and swallow toy parts or cooked bones. Our vets in Daventry say it’s always important to be mindful of hazards, secure bins, and keep pets away from leftovers.
Table scraps & rich foods
Rich, fatty foods and festive leftovers are a recipe for tummy trouble.
- Cooked bones splinter easily and can puncture the gut.
- Foods high in sugar can lead to weight gain, dental problems and diabetes
- Fatty foods like gravy and roast trimmings may trigger pancreatitis.
A few simple precautions can mean a happier, safer holiday season for everyone—furry family members especially! Here’s our top advice:
- Keep tempting foods and hazards out of reach.
- Don’t leave pets unsupervised around christmas trees, gifts, and party food.
- Dispose of scraps safely.
- Offer pets their own safe festive treats instead!
Our team at Daventry Vets advise that if your pet shows signs of distress, vomiting, or weakness, or even if you suspect they have ingested something dangerous, contact our emergency vet service in Daventry immediately.
A Guide to Choosing a Cattery in Daventry
If you’re planning a holiday in the New Year, our team at Daventry Vets have some top tips to help you find the perfect cattery.
We know leaving your cat can be daunting, but with these questions, we’ll help you find your cat the most perfect holiday home in Northamptonshire.
Download our cat travel safety tips
Our team suggest working through the questions below to find out everything you need to know about prospective holiday care for your cat.
Cattery: healthcare requirements
Vaccinations and parasite treatment
Work out what the cattery will need from you when it comes to your pet being vaccinated and up-to-date with their flea, tick and worming treatment. If you’re unsure as to when your cat had their most recent vaccinations, contact our team in Daventry and we can check.
Your cat’s healthcare
Enquire about the cattery’s process for dealing with a veterinary emergency and who their local vet is.
Cattery: services, security and facilities available
It’s always a good idea to visit prospective catteries before choosing one as you’ll only get a sense of certain aspects in person – our team have listed some of these below.
Security measures
Ask about what security measures are in place to protect your cat. Check windows and doors to make sure they are escape-proof and ask about their fire safety measures.
Hygiene
Pay special attention to the cleanliness of the cattery. The sleeping areas, litter boxes and common spaces should be clean and odour-free.
Specialised feeding
Discuss your cat’s dietary requirements before booking and make sure the cattery has the facilities to accommodate any particular needs your pet may have. If your cat has a specialised diet from Daventry Vets and you are running low, give us a call on 01327 877767 or order your meds here.
Noise and stress levels
You need to be sure that the noise levels in the cattery will not be too distressing for your cat. Enquire about what measures the cattery has in place to minimise the noise and stress levels for your cat. You may also get a feel for this this during a visit.
Accommodation options
Your chosen cattery may have various different accommodation options available – check if they are suitable for your cat?
Individual care
Ask whether the cattery offers cats individual playtime, care and fuss. Concerned about getting your cat to the cattery? Take a look at our 21 tips for transporting your cat.
External research on your cattery
Reputation and reviews
Our team in Daventry recommend paying attention to reviews and testimonials to understand what other cat owners have experienced with your chosen cattery before booking.
Booking policies and prices
Understand the cattery’s booking policies, the deposit and payment terms available.
Licences and insurance
Check the cattery has the necessary licences to meet industry standards. It will also need appropriate insurance so it’s worth asking about what cover they have in place.
How do you feel?
Ask the cattery how they will communicate with you and if you’re happy with this. Lots of catteries can offer daily pictures and updates so work out what you’re comfortable with.
Plan to visit the cattery ahead of your cat’s booking to visibly assess the facilities, cleanliness, and mannerisms of the staff who will be caring for your pet.
Using the points above will help you to develop your own feelings about the cattery. If you’re unsure or have doubts about certain aspects listed above, keep searching. The last thing you want whilst on holiday is to feel worried that your cat isn’t being cared for to the standards you expect.
Remember, thorough research and early planning is key to choosing the right temporary home for your cat in Northamptonshire.
Our vets at Daventry Vets will be able to suggest potential catteries in the local area. Contact us on 01327 877767 for more information.
Download our cat travel tips – a handy checklist to use when taking and picking your cat up from their stay at the cattery, and for any journey in the car your feline friend needs to take.
Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s Guide to Christmas Trees and Pets
Real Christmas trees are beautiful, but are they the best option when you have pets? At this time of year, our vets in Daventry often see cases where curious cats, dogs or rabbits have got a little too close to the tree, with unfortunate results.
If you do need urgent help, call our team at Daventry Vets on 01327 877767 straight away and we’ll arrange to see your pet as quickly as possible.
See our out of hours emegency vet service information
Which type of Christmas tree is best for pets?
Real Christmas trees
1. Pine needle problems
Pine needles may look harmless, but they’re sharp and non-digestible. If chewed or swallowed, they can cause irritation or even punctures to the mouth, throat, and stomach. Daventry Veterinary Clinic’s team share that pets who eat pine needles may show signs such as drooling, vomiting or reluctance to eat. In severe cases, the needles can cause dangerous internal blockages that require emergency care.
Pine trees also contain natural oils (terpenes) that can upset your pet’s stomach or cause skin irritation. Cats are particularly sensitive to these oils and may develop drooling, weakness or tremors after exposure. If you’ve ever wondered “are pine needles toxic to cats and dogs?”, the answer is yes, they are.
2. Troublesome tree water
Our vets in Daventry explain that Christmas tree water often contains sap and sometimes fertiliser that can cause tummy upsets if pets drink it.
Are plastic trees safe?
The short answer is, not really. If you have an artificial tree, remember they’re not risk-free either, as their plastic or tinsel-like needles can cause choking if chewed.
Call us on 01327 877767 straight away if you’re pet has ingested anything harmful.
Our verdict?
We don’t want to be bah-humbug, so our advice is always “think safety first!” Here are a few Christmas tree tips to reduce risk at home:
- Reduce pet access to the tree if you can.
- Failing that, sweep up fallen pine needles daily.
- Secure your tree to a wall if possible to prevent tipping.
- Avoid issues with tree water by securely covering the base of your tree.
- If buying a plastic tree, ensure there are no small detachable parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
- Tie up loose cables.
- Always choose pet-safe decorations and avoid having tinsel or edible ornaments within reach of pets.
Taking a few simple precautions will maximise the chances of your pets staying healthy and your home festive. Our veterinary team at Daventry Vets love seeing your pets, but we’re sure an emergency admission on Christmas Eve isn’t on your wish list!
Call us for advice or pop into the practice if there’s anything you’re unsure about before the holidays.
Looking for more pet care news? Be sure to check our other seasonal articles for tips from our vets in Daventry and things you need to know about winter pet care.
How to Keep Older Pets Fit and Happy in Northamptonshire
As pets get older, it’s natural for them to slow down, but that doesn’t mean they should stop moving altogether. Regular, gentle exercise around Northamptonshire can keep your senior pet’s joints supple, muscles strong, and heart healthy, while also helping to maintain a healthy weight.
Our team at Daventry Vets share easy ways to keep older pets active without overdoing it. Need some advice on putting a pep in your pet’s step? Book an appointment with our vets in Daventry for a senior health check.
Why staying active matters for older pets
Exercise isn’t just for the young. For senior pets, gentle activity can:
- Support joint mobility and flexibility
- Maintain muscle mass for stability and balance
- Help control weight and reduce obesity risk
- Support heart health and circulation
- Provide mental stimulation and reduce boredom
These benefits can also help prevent or manage age-related conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.
Low-impact exercise ideas for senior dogs
- Short, frequent walks around Northamptonshire: Several 10–15 minute strolls can be easier on the joints than one long walk.
- Gentle games: Indoor fetch with a soft toy or slow-paced scent games keep the brain and body engaged.
- Swimming: A great joint-friendly exercise for dogs who enjoy the water (only in safe, warm conditions).
- Puzzle feeders: Encourage movement and problem-solving at mealtimes.
Keeping senior cats active
- Encourage climbing: Use low or ramp-accessed perches to make jumping easier.
- Interactive play: Wand toys, laser pointers, and rolling balls can get cats moving in short bursts.
- Food games: Scatter feeding or puzzle feeders encourage natural hunting behaviour.
Joint care tips
Older pets may need a little extra support to stay comfortable during and after exercise:
- Warm up with slow, gentle movement before activity
- Provide soft bedding and a warm resting spot
- Use ramps or steps to help them reach favourite spots
- Keep exercise surfaces non-slip to reduce the risk of falls
- At your next appointment ask our vets at Daventry Vets about supplements or medication to support joint health
Enjoy every stage together
Keeping your older pet active doesn’t have to mean strenuous exercise. It’s about gentle, regular movement and activities they enjoy. By staying in tune with their needs and abilities, you can help them stay healthy, happy and full of life for longer.
Regular vet checks are essential
Senior pets should have at least one full health check with our vets in Daventry each year – ideally every six months – so any changes in mobility, weight or heart health can be spotted early. We can help you adapt their exercise plan as their needs change. Contact our friendly team to book your senior pet’s health check in Northamptonshire.
Prepare for Winter Travel with Your Pet Daventry
Winter car journeys require extra preparation when you’re travelling with furry passengers. Cold weather presents unique challenges that can affect your pet’s comfort and safety, making a few simple precautions essential for stress-free winter adventures.
Our vets at Daventry Vets have put together a list of pointers to check ahead of your trip. Before setting off on winter journeys, consider booking a check-up with our vets. A health assessment ensures your pet is fit for travel. Book an appointment with our vets in Daventry to make sure your furry friend is ready for a safe and comfortable winter trip.
How to travel safely with pets in cold weather
Pre-journey preparation
- Start your car and allow it to warm up before bringing your pet outside. Our vets at Daventry Vets explain that cold interiors can shock sensitive pets, particularly elderly animals or those with thin coats.
- Check that heating vents aren’t blowing directly onto your pet’s carrier or usual spot, whilst warmth is welcome, direct hot air can cause overheating or dehydration.
- Pack extra blankets for longer journeys around Northamptonshire or further afield. Even with heating, some pets feel chilly during travel and familiar bedding provides comfort alongside warmth.
Safe restraint in winter conditions
Proper restraint becomes even more critical during winter driving. Icy roads increase the likelihood of sudden stops or skids, making unrestrained pets dangerous projectiles.
- Use appropriate harnesses, carriers, or car barriers depending on your pet’s size.
- Never transport pets in the boot during cold weather – temperatures can drop dangerously low and heating rarely reaches these areas effectively.
Temperature management
- Monitor your pet for signs of overheating once the car warms up. Our vets at Daventry Vets warn that panting, restlessness, or drooling suggest they’re too warm.
- Crack windows slightly for fresh air, but be mindful of creating draughts.
- Conversely, watch for shivering or lethargy that might indicate they’re still too cold. Adjust heating or add blankets accordingly.
- If using a dog coat, it’s wise to put this on your dog when you reach your destination to avoid overheating during the journey.
Journey planning considerations
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departing.
- Winter storms can extend journey times significantly, so pack extra water and any necessary medications.
- Plan for regular breaks – pets need toilet stops regardless of weather but keep these brief during harsh conditions.
- Keep emergency supplies in your boot: extra blankets, water, food, and basic first aid supplies. If you become stranded, these items could prove invaluable.
Arrival protocols
- Allow your pet time to adjust when reaching your destination. Moving from a warm car into cold outdoor air can be jarring.
- If staying overnight somewhere new, bring familiar bedding to help them settle comfortably.
- Our vets at Daventry Vets remind you to never leave pets unattended in cars during winter. Even with heating off, vehicles can become dangerously cold quickly, and condensation can create uncomfortable dampness.
Special considerations
Short-haired breeds, senior pets and small animals are particularly vulnerable to cold. Consider protective clothing for brief outdoor stops and keep journeys as short as possible during severe weather. Remember that paws can suffer from road salt exposure so wipe them clean after any outdoor breaks to prevent irritation or ingestion when grooming.
With thoughtful preparation, winter car travel with pets can remain safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.
If you’re planning a long trip, a quick vet visit beforehand can make all the difference to your pet’s comfort and safety. Book an appointment with our vets in Daventry to get peace of mind before you leave.
