Ask our expert

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing answers all your pet questions

Here we give an expert’s advice on caring for your pet.

Dear PDSA Vet, I think my puppy Chanel is afraid of the vacuum. Every time I go to hoover the house, she cowers in her bed. What can I do to help her? Thanks, Paige

Hi Paige, this isn’t uncommon and there are things that you can do to help Chanel with her anxiety. As with any behavioural issue, speak to your vet, to make sure there’s no underlying medical problem that could be making her feel vulnerable, if she is physically well, they may refer her to an accredited pet behaviourist. Desensitisation is possible, but takes time and patience and will be a work in progress. In the meantime, when you need to use the vacuum for cleaning, do this with Chanel elsewhere, so that it doesn’t make her worse. You could create a quiet ‘den’ for her to retreat into, where she feels safe with toys and treats while you clean. For more information and guidance on desensitisation, please visit: pdsa.org. uk/dogsandphobias

Dear PDSA Vet, I think my cat George has lost weight. I didn’t really notice it until I saw a picture from Christmas time and he looks a lot thinner now. His diet or exercise routine hasn’t changed. Does he need to see a vet? Thanks, Tom

Hi Tom, sudden or significant weight loss in cats is usually a sign of a problem. It can be caused by many different reasons such as hyperthyroidism, stress, worms, kidney or dental disease or diabetes.

You can find out George’s weight by weighing him and checking his ‘body condition score’ but it’s important to get him thoroughly checked by your vet so they can carry out a physical examination and any tests that can help to diagnose the problem. Let your vet know if you’ve noticed any other changes in behaviour, eating or toileting habits. Find out more here: pdsa.org.uk/ weight-loss-in-cats

Dear PDSA Vet, I have a twoyear-old ferret and am thinking of getting another to give him some companionship. I’m worried they might not get on though – what can I do to help them get along? Thanks, Ayesha

Hi Ayesha, ferrets need at least another neutered ferret as a companion, so it’s good that you are considering this. They are very social animals who love to play, and they can become lonely and stressed if they live by themselves. Littermates who grow up together usually get on well. However, it is also possible to introduce ferrets that aren’t littermates too.

Introductions need to be over a couple of weeks at least and somewhere neutral. Using their outside play area is ideal. Let them get to know each other through a secure fence at first, introducing them when they seem comfortable in each other’s company and when you can be there to supervise. Your local ferret rescue can advise you further.