PET SUBJECTS

Vet Pete Wedderburn has the answers

Over the past six months, I’ve noticed a change in my two 15-year-old cats. One is constantly wanting food but is still skinny. The other spends more time sleeping, then walks around miaowing as if he doesn’t know where he is. Is it time for euthanasia? SS, DUDLEY

Many people mistakenly assume that ill health in elderly pets in an unavoidable part of old age: this is often not true. As a vet reading this, I can immediately think of treatable diseases that could explain the changes in both cats (such as Hyperthyroidism in the skinny one, and high blood pressure for the miaowing one). Take the cats to your vet for a once-over, plus some simple tests. Daily medication could be all that’s needed.

My two nine-year-old black Labrador bitches have slept in a kennel outside since they were puppies. Recently, they’ve escaped from the kennel during the night several times, damaging it. What could have caused this change in behaviour? CY, SUFFOLK

Something must have made them so distressed that they no longer want to stay in their kennel. Rats? Mice? Noises or activity outside the kennel? Stormy weather? Medical issues (such as arthritis) may mean that they are no longer comfortable in an enclosed space. Change the set-up, perhaps with a memory foam bed (try orvis.com) or move them to a sound-proofed location. Ask your vet to check they’re not in pain.

JOIN THE BIG BARKING BAKE SALE TO HELP ANIMALS

World Animal Protection wants supporters to help raise funds and awareness this October by baking for people – and for pets. If you’d like to use my own recipe to bake biscuits for your dog, visit worldanimalprotection. org.uk

RESCUE PET

Roxy is a friendly 11-yearold cat. For more details, call 01929 480474 or visit margaretgreenanimal rescue.org.uk To view the outcomes of rescued pets, see petethevet.com

Send queries to petsubjects@telegraph. co.uk or tweet @ Petethevet. All sick animals should be taken to a vet.