DR BRUCE CHARD
contact@northharbourvet.co.nz MY persian cross cat has recently begun coughing as though he has a fur ball but he does not seem to bring any fur up. He is still eating okay. Do I need to give him a laxative to get rid of the fur from his stomach?
Certainly long-haired cats will cough and retch to vomit up a fur ball sometimes. If this is only happening once a week then there is probably little to be concerned about. If more frequent then have him checked by your vet. Sometimes cats will have a grass blade caught at the back of their throat causing the same signs and will need an anaesthetic to remove it. Infections of the throat and windpipe will also cause coughing and retching. Lung infections will cause a cough and less commonly, allergic lung disease or asthma, can cause a dry hacking cough.
What steps can I take to keep my dog safe when he is out walking? He is a 5-year-old pomeranian who has not been neutered. He often growls at other dogs but on a recent walk he met another dog that bit him on the neck despite both dogs being on leads.
It does seem a factor when dogs are on leads they are often more predisposed to lunge and bark at one another whereas if off the lead in a safe space the encounter may not lead to any strife. You may wish to consider neutering your dog as other dogs feel less threatened by a neutered male. Practise your obedience training so he is more focused on you when encountering other dogs. Keep him on a short lead and praise him when he successfully passes another dog with minimal fuss. When in doubt do not let him greet other dogs and lift him up in your arms for safety.