DR BRUCE CHARD

contact@northharbourvet.co.nz PHOEBE, our 6-year-old Ragdoll cat often plays with a neighbour’s cat that does not appear to be well looked after as she has a matted coat. Is there any risk of disease that Phoebe could catch from her?

Make sure Phoebe is up to date with vaccinations that guard against enteritis and respiratory viruses that cause cold-like symptoms. It is unlikely there is a risk of her catching the cat Aidstype virus as this is spread by bites and that is unlikely if they just play. Check with your vet in case he/she feels there is a risk in your area. Use a good flea product on Phoebe, which often also protects against ear mites and lice, and keep her worming up to date. Ringworm, the fungal disease of the skin, could be transferred to Phoebe and is also a risk to humans so check for any area of hair loss.

My Staffy cross dog called Max had a skin reaction a year ago when he developed swelling about his face and eyes, then small lumps over his body. Our vet said it was an allergic reaction. Max had a second episode a month ago when he developed small lumps over his chest. What do you think is causing this?

It does sound as though Max is experiencing an urticarial reaction, or hives. This is an allergic reaction due to exposure to drugs, food, insect stings and plants. I presume that Max is not on medication as your vet would have stopped this. The good news is that the condition usually resolves itself within 24 hours, and Max will respond quickly to a single cortisone/antihistamine dose. If it only occurs occasionally your vet will be happy to let you have a supply of tablets to dose when it occurs. Seek help if swelling affects his breathing.