YOUR MOST GOOGLED QUESTIONS Answered!

shares his advice to help take care of your fourlegged friend

1 WHY DO DOGS CHASE THEIR TAILS?

This is common behaviour, particularly in dogs such as Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, high-energy working dogs. However, if you’re seeing a lot of it, I would suggest increasing their exercise.

2 CAN DOGS GET COLDS?

They can get colds, like we do. The most common is kennel cough, which is very infectious. Some dogs have been vaccinated but it’s not always necessary; many can shift it on their own like us. If you’re worried, check with your vet.

3 WHY IS MY DOG LICKING ITS PAWS?

Rule out itching or pain first. It could be allergies or joint pain – if it’s new behaviour, get it checked. Other behaviours that could be hiding a problem include scooting on their bums. It’s often a sign of discomfort in their anal glands if the fluid hasn’t been expressed properly. In addition, if your dog poses in a prayer position with its tail down it can be a sign of abdominal pain.

4 CAN DOGS EAT CUCUMBERS?

Yes! I’m a real advocate for veg in dogs’ diets, I think it’s important, particularly with puppies, not to rely on processed treats. Foods to avoid are chocolate, raisins, grapes, leeks, onion, garlic and corn on the cob. Quite often people give the cob to chew on, but if swallowed the husk can’t be easily digested, and can cause an obstruction.

5 HOW DO CATS GET FLEAS?

Very easily, as they’re prevalent all year round. If you’ve seen a flea on your cat, there are nine in the environment; your carpet, between your floorboard, soft furnishings – everywhere! It’s imperative you treat both them and your home. Vets will recommend a prescription treatment.

6 WHY IS MY CAT STARING AT ME?

It could be many things, and it’s probably not a problem! Play with your cat, interact with them. They’re big on eye contact (as opposed to dogs, who can find it quite affronting). There’s a concept called the ‘slow blink’, which cats do with other cats and people as a form of acceptance and friendship.

7 WHY DOES MY CAT KEEP SNEEZING?

Some cats sneeze more than others; there are many who are carrying viruses like cat flu. A dusty house can cause irritation. As long as they eat and drink properly, it’s fine. If you spot any crusty discharge, get it checked.

8 WHY DOES MY CAT GET SICK?

It’s common. First, reduce their food level and encourage them to slow down. It’s common for cats to gorge then throw up. You either reduce the amount and offer more frequently, or get a slow feeder. If it’s new behaviour, or not immediately after eating, check with a vet.

9 CAN RABBITS EAT BANANAS, RASPBERRIES, GREEN BEANS AND STRAWBERRY TOPS?

Yes! Around 80 per cent of their diet should be hay or grass, with a small amount of fruit and veg, the rest should be pellet food so they’re getting a consistent nutrient intake.

10 CAN RABBITS EAT GUINEA PIG FOOD?

No. The food looks similar, but it has different levels of nutrients, so it wouldn’t be a balanced diet.

11 WHY DO GUINEA PIGS VIBRATE?

It can be normal, but it can also be a sign of shivering or anxiety. If they’re out of their cage, being handled and start vibrating then give them a time-out in their cage.

12 HOW LONG CAN HAMSTERS GO WITHOUT WATER?

All animals should have access to fresh water, and have it replenished every day.

13 CAN HAMSTERS EAT RAISINS, WATERMELONS, PUMPKINS AND PEAS?

Watermelon, peas and pumpkin can be consumed in moderation. Avoid raisins.

14 DO HAMSTERS HIBERNATE?

If they’re in a cage they shouldn’t really be hibernating. It’ll be a sign that it’s too cold. They’ll only hibernate for a few days at most. If you don’t see yours for a day, check in on them. If they look OK, leave them be but monitor.

15 WHY DO HAMSTERS EAT THEIR BABIES?

It can be a territorial behaviour from the male, or from the mother because the baby isn’t well and won’t make it. You need to keep a close eye once the hamster has given birth, and perhaps remove the male from the cage.

16 CAN DWARF HAMSTERS LIVE TOGETHER?

A recent study showed even in dwarf hamsters you get a lot of fighting, so we recommend not housing them together.