Articles

Articles, questions and guides on pet care.

Eating things that are not edible - pica in cats

Eating things that are not edible - pica in cats

Pica is a term used to describe behaviour in cats where they regularly eat items that are not considered edible. This sometimes includes repeated eating one specific item such as stones, but can…

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Eating things that are not edible - pica in dogs

Eating things that are not edible - pica in dogs

Pica is a term used to describe behaviour in dogs where they regularly eat items that are not considered edible. This sometimes includes repeated eating one specific item such as stones, but can…

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Megacolon in cats

Megacolon in cats

Megacolon in cats is a term to describe an abnormality of the colon, which is the last part of the gut before the anus. With megacolon, the colon loses its motility, which is its ability to move…

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Intestinal lymphangiectasia in dogs

Intestinal lymphangiectasia in dogs

The lymphatic system is a series of branching vessels, called lacteals, which carry lymph fluid around the body. Lymph fluid carries cells of the immune system and plays an important role in the…

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Pancreatitis in cats

Pancreatitis in cats

The pancreas is an organ in the body located close to the stomach. It produces enzymes that assist in the digestion of food and hormones such as insulin that regulate sugar levels. When inflammation…

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I think my dog has ringworm. What should I do?

I think my dog has ringworm. What should I do?

Ringworm is a type of fungal infection in the skin. Ringworm infection is caused by microscopic fungi (dermatophytes) feed on the keratin layers of the skin. The name ‘ringworm’ comes from the fact…

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Gastric ulcers and gastritis in dogs

Gastric ulcers and gastritis in dogs

There are many reasons why your dog might be sick or not eat well. Gastritis is common but usually easily treatable. The stomach contains strong gastric acid, which is important in the breakdown of…

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Haemorrhagic gastro-enteritis (HGE) in dogs and cats

Haemorrhagic gastro-enteritis (HGE) in dogs and cats

Haemorrhagic gastro-enteritis (HGE) is a syndrome where a dog or cat passes diarrhoea and/or vomit containing fresh red blood. Sometimes they can have profuse watery bright red diarrhoea and it can…

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Fox tapeworm infection in dogs

Fox tapeworm infection in dogs

The fox tapeworm is a type of tapeworm found in Europe, but not in the UK. The tapeworm is found in America, central Asia, Japan and China. Its scientific name is Echinococcus multilocularis. This…

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Seizures in dogs

Seizures in dogs

Seizures are common in dogs, especially in certain breeds where there is a genetic susceptibility to epilepsy. A seizure is essentially a disturbance of normal brain function. This leads to…

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Top five health problems in older cats

Top five health problems in older cats

As cats age, they can be more prone to certain age related disease processes. Early detection and management of these age related issues leads to a better quality of life for older cats. Read more…

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Pros and cons of keeping a cat indoors

Pros and cons of keeping a cat indoors

For most cat owners, it is an important decision on whether you should keep your cat indoors or allow them access to the outside world. There are pros and cons of both options which this article…

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Halloween hazards and Bonfire Night - how to keep your pet safe

Halloween hazards and Bonfire Night - how to keep your pet safe

Halloween can be a wonderful time of year with lots of sweets and chocolates in abundance, creative costumes and a great time had by all. However our pets may feel very different, with dangers posed…

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My cat has a swollen face

My cat has a swollen face

Facial swelling in cats can have multiple causes, all of which require veterinary attention. Facial swelling will usually be accompanied by pain and will generally make your cat feel miserable.…

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My dog has a swollen face

My dog has a swollen face

Facial swelling in dogs can have multiple causes, all of which require veterinary attention. Facial swelling will usually be accompanied by pain and will generally make your dog feel miserable.…

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What are probiotics? Why and when should I give them to my dog or cat?

What are probiotics? Why and when should I give them to my dog or cat?

Every pet shop out there offers numerous probiotics. But what is a probiotic actually? Does it do anything? How to use it? Read on for what you need to know on gut health and probiotics for pets.

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How to spot ear mites in pets and what to do about them

How to spot ear mites in pets and what to do about them

Many things cause itchy ears in dogs and cats. One of the causes, particularly in younger animals, and especially in kittens, are ear mites. Find what you need to know about ear mites in our article!

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How to deal with your cat’s ear infection (otitis externa)?

How to deal with your cat’s ear infection (otitis externa)?

Cats get ear infections much rarer than dogs, though not never. Read our article to learn how to recognise when your cat has an ear infection (otitis externa) and what to do about it.

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