- Our services
Articles
Articles, questions and guides on pet care.
Ticks and your horse
Ticks are small, blood sucking parasites of mammals. This can include horses, dogs, cats and humans. They are increasingly common in the UK. The three most common species of tick are: Ixodes ricinus…
Ticks and small animals
Ticks are small parasites that can range in size from a pinhead, before feeding, to the size of a fingernail after feeding. Ticks feed on the blood of animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, hedgehogs,…
Can I get coronavirus from my pet?
After the outbreak of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in China, the virus is now spreading throughout the world. There are many questions and concerns about the infection from people, both with and…
Blue-green algae poisoning in dogs
Blue-green algae typically grows in lakes, ponds and slow moving streams, as well as marine water bodies throughout the UK. When favourable environmental conditions are present (sunny weather, high…
How to apply spot-on medication to your dog or cat
A lot of medicines for preventing external and internal parasites such as ticks, fleas and worms in cats and dogs are spot-on preparations. Read our article on how to use them safely and effectively!
How to help your pet to be home alone again after Covid-19 quarantine: 5 tips
Many of our pets have enjoyed the extra time that they have had with their owners during the Covid-19 restrictions. As the lockdown is lifting, it is important to remember that your pet(s) will not…
Why is my dog scooting? Recognising anal gland problems in dogs
When dogs drag their bottom along the floor, we often call this commonly seen behaviour ‘scooting’. It is usually associated with irritation of their anal glands, which sit just inside the anus at…
Tips for buying a new cat or kitten
Is it almost time to bring home your new and long-awaited family member? How do you need to prepare? Here we share our best tips for planning for your new cat's arrival.
Summer dangers for dogs
Summer means that we can be more out in nature with our dogs, especially as Covid-19 lockdown restrictions are lifting. But with the heat, the great outdoors, swimming and barbecues come a number of…
Choosing the right cat breed for you
Choosing the right breed of cat or kitten is an exciting time for every prospective owner. Owning a cat is very rewarding, whilst being a big responsibility. They are many breeds to choose from, and…
Neutering your cat – advantages and disadvantages
It is very common for cats to be neutered in the UK. When castrating male cats, the testicles are removed. When neutering female cats, the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed…
Help! My cat pees in the wrong place, what should I do?
It is a relatively common problem that a cat who has always used a litter tray can suddenly start to urinate on the bed, the carpet or other inappropriate place. Unfortunately, it can be difficult…
7 things that are dangerous for your pet in the Autumn
Autumn is a wonderful season, both for humans and animals. Many people want to be out in the fresh air, but the bright days get shorter and it gets darker outside faster. Remember that unlit…
Can my dog eat a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Technically yes, dogs can survive on both a vegan or vegetarian diet. However, there are some important things to understand to ensure that your dog gets the right nutrition for their age, size and…
Feeding your dog or cat a raw food diet - What do you need to consider?
Are you thinking of feeding your dog a raw diet? Read our article to find out all you need to know about raw feeding your dog a raw meat-based diet to help you make an informed decision. Similar…
Help! My dog is eating poo
Coprophagia is the medical term for eating poo. Although an unpleasant behaviour, eating faeces is a problem behaviour we see in both puppies and adult dogs. It mostly occurs in puppies and young…
Choosing a cat carrier
Cats often have negative associations with their carrier, especially if it means a trip to the vet. This may make it difficult to get them to enter the carrier, therefore making it harder and more…
Retained testicle (Cryptorchidism) in pets
When an animal has an undescended or retained testicle, we call this condition cryptorchidism. Cryptorchidism is seen in both cats and dogs, as well as other animals. Although cryptorchidism rarely…
With FirstVet, the vet clinic and pet shop are only one tap away. Get fast advice, trusted care and the right pet supplies – every day, all year round.
FIRSTVET UK LTD
25 Horsell Road
London
N5 1XL
United Kingdom