DR BRUCE CHARD

contact@northharbourvet.co.nz WE want to try to rid our property of rats but are cautious about laying bait as we have a labrador and two cats. Is there a safe way to do this and what are the signs of poisoning in dogs and cats?

Extreme care is needed when laying rat bait, and dogs readily eat bait. Cats are less likely to do this. The bait interferes with the blood clotting so signs develop 3-5 days after exposure. They are white gums, lethargy, coughing up blood or passing bloody faeces. Your vet can diagnose poisoning with a blood test to measure clotting time, along with clinical signs and access to bait. Ensure the bait is stored in a secure container and placed safely away from your pets. All baits should be placed only in ratbait stations where the rodents can eat the bait but not drag it outside. This is always the problem with random bait placement on your property.

Our 15-year-old cat, Tess, seems to be showing her age. She sometimes misses her litter tray when passing urine and can also wake us up at night when she calls out loudly for no apparent reason. Is she becoming senile?

Certainly Tess could be suffering from senile changes. It is estimated that 80 per cent of cats 16-20 years old will show senile changes such as memory loss, lack of awareness and poorer sight and hearing. It is always best to have Tess seen by your vet to rule out medical problems. Tests will be done to check her overall health such as thyroid and kidney function. Urine testing will need to be done to show if there is a bladder infection as this could be the cause of her soiling. If your vet confirms senile change then try to keep Tess in a fixed routine. Use litter trays with low sides. Increase exercise during the day.